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A stunning and rare monumental antique French inkwell desk set depicting a large bust sculpture of the ancient mythology Greek god of medicine ASCLEPIUS (named in French at the base of the bust ‘’ESCULAPE’’), with two large inkwells and elaborate handles formed as intertwining snakes (symbol of medicine), the bust and inkwells are made of silvered bronze, standing on a rouge ‘’griotte’’ marble base, beautiful sculpture details overall, original patina, unsigned and no apparent markings found, made in France, circa 1880-1890s
History: Asclepius (or Hepius) is a hero and god of medicine in ancient Greek religion and mythology. He is the son of Apollo and Coronis. Asclepius represents the healing aspect of the medical arts; his daughters are Hygieia ("Hygiene", the goddess of cleanliness), Laso (the goddess of recuperation from illness), Aceso (the goddess of the healing process), Aegle (the goddess of good health) and Panacea (the goddess of universal remedy). He has several sons as well. He was associated with the Roman/Etruscan god Vediovis and the Egyptian Imhotep. He shared with Apollo the epithet Paean ("the Healer"). The rod of Asclepius, a snake-entwined staff, (similar to the caduceus) remains a symbol of medicine today. Those physicians and attendants who served this god were known as the Therapeutae of Asclepius.
Condition: in excellent condition, no breaks, no repairs, minor dent to one leg under marble base, missing metal podium under bust
Dimensions are:
Total height is 14.5 inches
Total weight is 31 lbs
The Asclepius bust is 11 inches high x 5 inches wide x 4 inches deep, its base is 3.5 square inches, the weight is 6.6 lbs
The inkwells are 5.5 inches long x 5.5 inches deep x 4 inches high
The base is 20 x 10.5 inches (including legs)
The marble base is 17.75 x 8.75 x 1 inches
More pictures available on request
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Shipping fees can differ depending of your location, please contact me PRIOR buying for a more accurate shipping cost estimate.
International buyers are welcome.