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The Three Sons with their Father's Corpse

North Italian 15th or 16th Century

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture depicts multiple human figures in a classical scene. On the left, an elderly figure stands near a structure resembling an altar or table, reaching towards it with a staff. Next to him, three individuals, two male and one possibly female, move towards a seated figure. Behind the seated figure stands a shield-bearing warrior. The kneeling figure closest to the seated individual gestures in supplication. The figures interact in a dynamic composition. The material appears to be bronze with a rich brown patina. The relief is detailed, with the figures in high relief against a textured background suggesting trees and natural elements. The edges are framed with a decorative border.

Artwork Details

Date
late 15th - early 16th century
Medium
bronze//Dark brown patina
Dimensions
5778 × 3392 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
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