Neptune with a Dolphin 1663 - 1707

This terracotta sculpture of Neptune with a Dolphin was crafted by Joachim Henne, an artist active at the turn of the 18th century. Here we observe Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, standing triumphantly over a dolphin, a creature often associated with him. Notice Neptune's commanding gesture, arm raised, ready to strike with his now-missing trident. It's a pose that echoes the dynamism found in classical depictions of gods and heroes, a lineage traceable back to ancient Greek sculpture. Consider, for instance, how the raised arm motif appears in images of Zeus, poised to hurl a thunderbolt. This gesture, laden with power, transcends mere representation; it evokes a primal response, tapping into our collective memory of authority and dominance. The dolphin itself, beyond its association with Neptune, has carried varied symbolism through time. In early Christian art, the dolphin symbolized Christ, a guide leading souls to salvation. Here, it seems subdued, transformed into a symbol of Neptune’s dominion. The image reflects a complex interplay of cultural memory, where classical and Christian motifs merge, each imbuing the sculpture with layers of meaning that resonate deep within our subconscious.