Diana of Gabii Life Size Statue

Color
White Marble
Aged Patina

Our Diana of Gabii Life-size Statue is a remarkable reproduction of the original Roman copy of a Greek statue from the 4th century B.C. (circa 330 B.C.), which represents the goddess of the hunt, the moon, and nature—known as Diana in Roman mythology and Artemis in Greek mythology. The original work, crafted from Paros marble, was unearthed in 1792 amidst the ruins of Gabii, an ancient city near Rome, Italy. After its discovery, the statue became part of the prestigious Borghese collection until it was acquired by Napoleon in 1807. Today, the original statue is housed in the Louvre Museum in Paris, where it stands as a testament to the grace and beauty of classical sculpture.

This stunning reproduction stands at 164 cm (64 inches) in height and is crafted from a combination of natural white marble and architectural resin, ensuring both durability and aesthetic excellence. With a base measuring 53x45x8 cm (20.8"x17.7"x3.1"), the statue offers a stable and elegant presence, making it a perfect addition to both indoor and outdoor spaces. Weighing 90 kg (198 lbs), the statue is substantial enough to command attention while maintaining the delicacy and elegance of the original masterpiece.

The Story of Diana: Goddess of the Hunt and the Moon

In both Roman and Greek mythology, Diana (or Artemis) is revered as the goddess of the hunt, the wilderness, the moon, and the protector of young women and animals. She is often depicted as a young and athletic figure, embodying both strength and grace. Her connection to nature and the wild world, as well as her role as a huntress, made her a key figure in the pantheon of deities in ancient mythology.

The Diana of Gabii statue captures the goddess in a serene and poised moment. Unlike other depictions of Diana, where she is often shown with a bow and quiver, this statue presents her in a calm, almost regal pose, gently adjusting her robe, which emphasizes her divine grace and femininity. Her expression is serene, embodying her role as a goddess of wisdom and protector of nature. The elegance of her posture and the fluidity of her robes suggest a quiet power, a reflection of her status as a goddess who was both a fierce huntress and a compassionate guardian.

Discovery and History: The Statue's Journey Through Time

The Diana of Gabii statue was discovered in 1792 in the ancient town of Gabii, which was located near Rome. Gabii was an important settlement in the early history of the Roman Republic, and its ruins have revealed many treasures, among which this statue of Diana was one of the most significant finds.

When the statue was unearthed, it quickly became part of the Borghese collection, one of the most famous art collections in Europe at the time. In 1807, Napoleon Bonaparte acquired the Borghese collection, and the statue was relocated to France, where it became part of the Louvre Museum’s collection. Today, the statue is admired by thousands of visitors every year and is considered one of the most exquisite examples of Roman copies of Greek art.

Dimensions and Visual Impact

Standing at 164 cm (64 inches) tall, the Diana of Gabii Life-size Statue is a perfect representation of classical beauty and balance. The proportions of the statue reflect the idealized human form that was central to both Greek and Roman sculpture, where attention to detail and anatomical precision were key elements of the artistic process.

  1. Height: At just over 5 feet, this life-size statue is tall enough to make a statement in any setting, whether it is placed in a formal garden, a classical interior, or an art gallery. Its size allows for an intimate yet powerful presence, capturing the viewer's attention without overwhelming the space.

  2. Width and Depth: With a width and depth of 55 cm (21.6 inches), the statue maintains a compact yet commanding profile. The slender and graceful figure of Diana is enhanced by the fluid lines of her draped robe, which falls in soft, naturalistic folds, emphasizing both her modesty and her divine elegance.

  3. Base Dimensions: The base of the statue measures 53x45x8 cm (20.8"x17.7"x3.1"), providing a sturdy foundation while maintaining a low profile so that the focus remains on the figure of Diana herself. The base’s size and weight ensure stability, making this statue suitable for placement in various environments, including outdoor settings.

Craftsmanship: Combining Tradition with Modern Innovation

Our Diana of Gabii Life-size Statue is crafted from a blend of natural white marble and architectural resin, creating a work that is both true to the classical aesthetic and durable for modern use. The combination of these materials allows for a statue that is resistant to the elements, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor display.

  1. Natural White Marble: Marble has been the material of choice for sculptors since ancient times, valued for its ability to capture light and detail. The natural white marble used in this reproduction enhances the smooth surfaces of Diana’s skin and the intricate folds of her robe, lending the statue a luminous and timeless quality. Marble is also known for its durability, ensuring that this statue will remain a centerpiece of beauty for generations to come.

  2. Architectural Resin: The addition of architectural resin allows for greater flexibility and precision in the sculpting process, particularly in capturing fine details such as the intricate drapery of Diana’s robe and the delicate features of her face. Resin is also lightweight and durable, making it ideal for outdoor settings where the statue may be exposed to the elements.

Pose and Expression: Grace and Serenity

The Diana of Gabii statue captures the goddess in a moment of quiet reflection. Her pose, adjusting her robe with both hands, suggests a moment of preparation or contemplation, perhaps before embarking on a hunt or performing one of her divine duties. The gentle curve of her body, emphasized by the fluid drapery of her robe, creates a sense of movement and natural grace.

  1. Elegance of the Pose: Diana’s contrapposto stance, with her weight shifted onto one leg, creates a natural and harmonious balance. This classical pose, often used in Greek sculpture, emphasizes the goddess’s athletic form and poise. Her raised arms, delicately adjusting the folds of her robe, suggest both modesty and a casual elegance that reflects her divine nature.

  2. Facial Expression: Diana’s expression is calm and serene, with a slight downward gaze that conveys a sense of introspection. The delicately rendered features of her face—her softly arched brows, straight nose, and slightly parted lips—capture her youthful beauty and divine grace. Her expression embodies the dual aspects of her character: as a fierce protector of the wilderness and a compassionate guardian of women and children.

A Timeless Addition to Any Collection

Whether displayed in a formal garden, a gallery, or an elegant interior, the Diana of Gabii Life-size Statue is sure to captivate viewers with its beauty, grace, and classical elegance. This reproduction is not only a work of art but also a tribute to the ancient traditions of Greek and Roman sculpture, making it a perfect addition to any classical art collection.