Statues Of The Tribune - Florence

The Wrestlers; a beautiful little group; but the figures too much under size; delicate and exquisitely finished for the subject, which would rather have demanded the grand dashing style of Michael Angelo. Although I protest against mere bulk as a representation of strength, I feel, in viewing this group, a strong proof that littleness is inconsistent with grandeur or nobleness of effect. The principal idea, that of struggling and of animated action, is not expressed with sufficient force or power. The heads are simply those of two pretty youths, represented in beautiful white marble, but inanimate, and by restoration made to resemble each other: there is hardly any part in high action. The whole only serves to suggest what might be made of such a subject. It would require (even in seeking only to render the general idea) to be executed on the grand, the broad, and the bold style. In this the slender limbs seem exiles from the body, and, owing to an affectation of anatomy and science, have too much fibre; the heels and toes are too small, the latter too close; the legs of the conqueror are stringy, and quite out of drawing; the peronean muscles run in high ridges along the whole leg; the grasping hands grasp feebly; the raised hand and arm is too short, and not well proportioned, while the arm of the hand on which the subdued figure rests, is without the swell corresponding with the posture; and the countenances evince no spirit nor powerful expression, characteristic of the mutual situations of the combatants. The only really good point of action is where the two thighs meet, and cling and swell by pressure, which is naturally conceived and finely expressed. The whole may be de-scribed as being a nice well-finished little group, but wanting in grandeur, action, and expression.