Description
Milo was an athlete in 6th-century BC Croton (present-day Crotone, Italy). Late in life, he attempted to demonstrate his strength by pulling apart a split tree trunk. The tree closed on his hand, holding him captive while wild animals devoured him. This ancient myth is a parable on excessive pride. As a student at the École des Beaux-Arts, the leading French art school, Barye placed second when he entered this composition in a contest for the grand prize in medals.
For the plaster version of this medal see WAM 27.191.
Results