Antigone Pouring a Libation over the Corpse of Her Brother Polynices 1867 - 1870

Here is a marble sculpture, "Antigone Pouring a Libation over the Corpse of Her Brother Polynices", made by William Henry Rinehart in the 19th century. The sculpture portrays Antigone, from Greek mythology, in a moment of defiance and mourning. Rinehart’s choice of subject reflects the 19th-century fascination with classical themes and the era's emphasis on moral virtue and duty. This was a period marked by social and political upheaval, including the American Civil War, which deeply influenced Rinehart. Antigone's act of pouring a libation symbolizes resistance against tyranny and devotion to familial duty, challenging the patriarchal authority represented by King Creon, who forbade the burial of her brother. The sculpture thus transcends its classical origins, resonating with contemporary struggles for justice and individual autonomy. Rinehart captures Antigone’s emotional turmoil through her downcast gaze and the delicate rendering of her flowing garments. In honoring her brother, Antigone embodies a powerful act of remembrance and challenges societal norms. This act underscores the importance of empathy and moral courage in the face of injustice.