Theseus and Ariadne

Paul Manship, Theseus and Ariadne, 1928, bronze, 7 ³⁄₄ x 13 ¹⁄₂ x 5 ¹⁄₂ in. (19.7 x 34.3 x 14.0 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Bequest of Paul Manship, 1966.47.24

Artwork Details

Title: Theseus and Ariadne
Artist: Paul Manship
Date: 1928
Location: Not on view
Dimensions: 7 ³⁄₄ x 13 ¹⁄₂ x 5 ¹⁄₂ in. (19.7 x 34.3 x 14.0 cm)
Credit Line: Bequest of Paul Manship
Mediums: bronze
Mediums Description: bronze
Classifications: Sculpture
Subjects: State of being — other — sleep
Mythology — classical — Ariadne
Mythology — classical — Theseus
Object Number: 1966.47.24
Linked Open Data: https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1966.47.24

Artwork Description

Man Observing Sleeping Nude is also known as Theseus and Ariadne. According to Greek legend, Theseus traveled to Crete to kill the Minotaur, a half man and half beast who lived in a labyrinth. The king’s daughter, Ariadne, fell in love with Theseus, and helped him defeat the monster and find his way out of the labyrinth. After they both escaped, Theseus abandoned Ariadne while she was sleeping, and this sculpture depicts the moment just before he disappeared.