The original bronze statue of a Crouching Aphrodite by the famous Greek sculptor Doidalsas (3rd century BC) no longer survives but it served as a model for many Roman copies.
One of the best versions is considered to be the one at Palazzo Massimo alle Terme (National Roman Museum) found in the Heliocaminus Baths at Villa Adriana at Tivoli. The Crouching Venus is undoubtedly one of the most sensual statues from Antiquity. This type of Aphrodite was largely used for decorating gardens, fountains and baths.
The attention to detail is great: the mouth is half-open and we can admire her beautiful teeth.
In some versions she is accompanied by Eros who probably was not foreseen by Doidalsas. The original Aphrodite had to be plumper and show more curves while in the marble translations she has apparently lost weight. She is trying to cover her nudity, almost hiding. Pure charm and grace.
Doidalsas of Bythinia is a Greek sculptor, mentioned also by Pliny, who saw a marble copy of the statue in the Portico of Octavia in Rome. The pose is convincing even if, standing up, the figure would be too elongated. The effect is intentional: her fleshiness is unparalleled in other Aphrodite types.
If you wish to learn more about this statue or the other masterpieces at Palazzo Massimo.
