Allegorical Group of Victory Supported by Valor

Discussion

FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

Francesco Bertos specialized in creating allegorical groups of great complexity in marble and bronze. Pyramidal in shape, these works consist of multiple figures generally embodying the triumph of virtue over vice. Here the subject is a winged personification of victory standing on a unicorn, the symbol of purity, and supported by the mythical Greek hero Hercules (wearing the hide of the lion he killed in the first of his 12 labors), representing valor. Below are figures who personify riches, prudence, agriculture and abundance, and honor overcoming deceit.

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