Venus de milo

The Venus de Milo is a Greek sculpture of the goddess Aphrodite, dated around 130 BC, famous for its missing arms and idealized representation of female beauty.

About this subject

The Venus de Milo is a marble statue of the Greek goddess Aphrodite (Venus to the Romans), sculpted around 130 BC by Alexandros of Antioch. It was discovered in 1820 on the island of Milos in Greece by a local farmer, and later acquired by the French ambassador to Constantinople, who donated it to the Louvre Museum in Paris, where it remains one of the most visited artworks.

The sculpture measures 2.02 meters in height and depicts Aphrodite in a semi-seductive pose, with the torso slightly inclined. Originally, the goddess probably held an apple (symbol of discord) or a shield, but the arms were lost over time. The missing arms have made it mysterious and iconic, sparking debates about its original pose.

Venus de Milo is a classic example of the Hellenistic period, characterized by naturalism and expressiveness. Although the exact identity of the figure was contested in the past, it is now widely accepted as Aphrodite, associated with beauty and love. The statue has influenced artists and cultural movements, including Salvador Dalí's surrealism, who depicted it with drawers on the chest.

Trivia: In 1916, the statue was the target of a minor vandalism act when German philosopher Oskar Kokoschka tried to break it with a hammer, but the Louvre's protection prevented serious damage. Today, the museum keeps the piece in a climate-controlled room for preservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are the arms of the Venus de Milo missing?

The statue's arms were lost over time, likely due to damage during a fall or burial. It is unknown exactly how she originally looked, but it is believed the goddess held an apple or a shield.

Where is the Venus de Milo currently located?

The Venus de Milo is displayed at the Louvre Museum in Paris, France, in the Sully Wing, ground floor, room 346. It is one of the museum's most iconic pieces.

How tall is the Venus de Milo?

The statue measures 2.02 meters in height, including the base. It is made of marble and weighs approximately 1,600 kg.