Il nudo maschile nella statuaria italiana: RICCIO -- pastore seduto, Louvre -- Parigi

Speranza

Shepherd with Syrinx probably after 1510 (?) Bronze Musée du Louvre, Paris, Département des Objets d’Art Cat. No. 21

The Louvre Shepherd is among Riccio’s most sublime treatments of the classical male nude.

The figure’s lithe body recalls ancient sculptures of youthful gods.

Its rustic subject, however, derives from classical poetry.

Riccio combines these sources and endows his new invention with Renaissance psychological complexity.

Apparently relaxed, the Shepherd draws in his left leg, stretches his right, and gently sets aside his syrinx.

Yet, his expectant gaze and furrowed brow convey an abrupt shift in mood.

The body is at ease, but the movements of his features convey rich inner life.