Perseus and Medusa by Benvenuto Cellini, Loggia dei Lanzi, Florence

The Hidden Self-Portrait

1/11/2014

Perseus and his creator Benvenuto Cellini

Benvenuto Cellini's sculpture of Perseus and Medusa, which stands under the left arch of the Loggia dei Lanzi, is one of the most beautiful works of art in Florence. Its creator was justly proud of the work and inscribed his name (BENVENVTVS CELLINVS CIVIS FLOR FACIEBAT MDLIII/Benvenuto Cellini, citizen of Florence, made this, 1553) on the band that runs across Perseus' chest. Cellini also transformed the back of Perseus' helmet, and his flowing locks, into a brilliant self-portrait.

The bronze statue of Perseus and Medusa (1545-54), which was commissioned by Duke Cosimo I de' Medici (r. 1537-74) and created by Benvenuto Cellini (1500-71) for the Loggia dei Lanzi, was unveiled to the public on April 27th, 1554.

Cellini's sculpture illustrates the story of the Greek hero Perseus, who slew the monstrous Gorgon Medusa, whose eyes turned people into stone. Perseus was helped by Zeus (who gave him a type of sword known as a harpe), Hermes (who lent him his winged sandals and winged helmet) and Athena (who gave him a polished shield). Perseus then proceeded to the Gorgons' cave, where he came upon Medusa asleep. By viewing her reflection in the shield, he was able to approach safely and cut off her head.

Perseus stands with one foot on his shield and the other on Medusa’s decapitated body. Sword in hand, he triumphantly holds aloft the Gorgon's head for all to see. The locks of Medusa's hair take the form of writhing snakes, symbols of discord, which the duke claimed to have stamped out. Cellini's statue was intended to serve as a public warning to the populace about the perils of dissent.

Each of the four niches in the very ornate marble pedestal contains a bronze statuette. The statuettes depict Zeus, Hermes, Athena, and Danae with the young Perseus, The pedestal and the statuettes have been replaced by copies; the original ensemble can be found in the Museo Nazionale del Bargello. The bronze bas-relief beneath the pedestal, also a copy, depicts Perseus Rescuing Andromeda.