Artwork preview

A Warrior Fighting a Centaur

Italian 18th Century

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture depicts a muscular, nude male figure engaged in combat with a bull. The man is shown in a dynamic pose, with one arm raised high as if to strike, while his legs are positioned over the bull, emphasizing the struggle and energy of the scene. The bull is on its back, seemingly subdued beneath the man. The material of the sculpture appears to be metal, with a patinated finish that gives it a predominantly dark brown color, with hints of greenish patina in some areas. The piece is rendered in relief on a rectangular plaque with rounded corners. The small-scale sculpture presents a scene of mythological or heroic accomplishment.

Artwork Details

Date
18th century
Medium
bronze//Medium brown patina
Dimensions
3577 × 3070 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original