Made for the Paris Salon of 1897, this monumental and rare marble statue by Alfred-Désiré Lanson captures the tale of Leda and the swan with grace and energy. The story of Leda, a maiden seduced by the god Zeus in the form of a swan, is one of the most well-known stories from classical mythology and a favorite subject of artists in every medium. Under Lanson’s skillful hand, this popular theme comes alive with exceptional artistry and attention to detail.

Lanson’s work has included interpretations of allegorical and classical subjects. Born in Orléans in 1851, he studied at the Beaux Arts in Paris and was a student of Pierre Louis Rouillard, François Jouffrey, and Aimé Millet. Lanson exhibited at the Salons from 1870 to 1898,