Ariadne of Minos - Ancient Greek Mythology

A handcrafted resin bust of Ariadne, based on an original piece in a British Museum collection.

Princess Ariadne, a prominent figure in Greek mythology, was the daughter of King Minos of Crete. She is best known for her pivotal role in the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur. According to the legend, Ariadne fell deeply in love with Theseus, a prince of Athens who had come to Crete as part of a group of tributes meant to be sacrificed to the Minotaur—a fearsome creature with the body of a man and the head of a bull, which resided in the labyrinth beneath the palace of Knossos. Moved by her love for Theseus, Ariadne devised a plan to help him defeat the Minotaur and escape the labyrinth. She gave Theseus a ball of thread, which he used to trace his way back after slaying the Minotaur, thus securing his victory and his life.

However, Ariadne's story does not end with her heroic act. After Theseus and Ariadne fled Crete, they stopped at the island of Naxos. It was here that Theseus, for reasons that remain unclear and vary between different versions of the myth, abandoned Ariadne while she slept. Heartbroken and alone, Ariadne’s fate took a divine turn when she was discovered by Dionysus, the god of wine and revelry. Dionysus was enchanted by Ariadne and rescued her, eventually making her his immortal wife. He took her to Olympus, where she was granted eternal life and happiness among the gods.

The replica of Ariadne captures her in one of two iconic moments that have inspired countless poets and artists throughout ancient Greece and Rome. She is either depicted in her contemplative and sorrowful moments on the shores of Naxos, reflecting the poignant solitude following her abandonment by Theseus, or as the radiant and immortal consort of Dionysus, symbolizing her transformation and eternal joy. These representations not only highlight her tragic and triumphant journey but also underscore her enduring legacy in classical mythology.

An intriguing gift inspired by classical art and mythology.

See Ariadne - Keeper of the Labyrinth

Product Information

Material: Resin

Dimensions: H34 x W14 x L21cm

Product Weight: 4.7Kg   Postage Weight: 7.1Kg