Artwork
The Death of Eros
The Death of Eros is a photographic photography by Ercole Drei. It is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
The Death of Eros is a black-and-white photograph by Ercole Drei, mounted on green card. It is part of a collection of photographs gathered by William Kineton Parkes in the 1920s.
Subject & Meaning
The photograph depicts a sculpted scene: a small kneeling figure works on a larger, muscular figure lying on its side, half-buried in fabric. The larger figure's twisted pose and averted face convey a sense of drama.
Technique & Style
The photograph's stark lighting emphasizes the sculpted forms against a dark background, creating a clear contrast between light and dark.
History & Provenance
The image was one of many responses to a questionnaire distributed by Parkes to sculptors. It was bequeathed to the Archive of Art and Design in 1938 as part of Parkes' collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Ercole Drei was an Italian sculptor. His work was part of the sculpture event in the art competition at the 1932 Summer Olympics.
