The Three Sons with their Father's Corpse

Italian 15th or 16th Century

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture is a detailed relief depicting several human figures and a horse. To the left, a figure leans against a tree, appearing to be bound. In the center, two standing figures are in conversation or interaction with a third seated figure who is on horseback. To the right, another figure is seated on the ground in a pose suggesting they are looking upward. The scene is set under a starry sky with a crescent moon visible. The sculpture is made of a material resembling bronze, giving it a metallic, slightly weathered appearance with a warm brown hue. The figures are intricately carved, showing the drape of their clothing and their postures in a classical style. The overall impression is of a classical or mythological scene captured in a single moment.