Aristaeus, god of gardens

In Greek mythology, Aristaeus was the son of Apollo and the nymph Cyrene. He is depicted here as a standing nude figure wearing a crown of flowers and resting one elbow on a tree trunk. Bosio drew inspiration from classical Greek statuary and life studies to create this virile nude; the meticulously detailed musculature and exquisitely carved marble convey a combination of strength and suppleness. The serenity of Aristaeus' physical presence contrasts with the melancholy of his expression - an allusion to his sorrow at the accidental death of the nymph Eurydice, caused by his amorous pursuit.