CA0310 French oak panel relief of the Laocoön's son Antiphantes

A rare and beautifully carved late 18th century Neoclassical French oak profile portrait panel of what would seem to be the elder son of the Laocoön, Antiphantes, probably the most famous statue of antiquity. The original was excavated in Rome in 1506 and placed on public display in the Octagonal Court in the Vatican in Rome where it can be seen to this day. Superb interpretation rich in realism and emotion. The intense expression capturing the heroic agony of the tragic figure. Imagery popular in revolutionary France. Beautifully patinated rich oak panel. A fine example and probably unique piece of neoclassicism in an unusual medium. Probably a Grand Tour piece. France, circa 1790.

H 18cm x W 13.5cm x D 6cm