In addition to the Bernini sculptures, there are tons of other fascinating pieces to be found in the collection of the Villa Borghese. Here are a few that impressed me.
Venus Victrix, by Canova, depicts Pauline Bonaparte, Napoleon's sister who had married into the Borghese family, as the goddess Venus. This was quite scandalous at the time, and questions were raise as to whether she had actually posed naked for the artist. Also, in the true tradition of Bonaparte modesty and humility, she is shown holding an apple, in reference to the beauty contest with the other goddesses, as adjudicated by Paris of Troy.
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| Venus Victix by Canova |
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| Holding her apple |
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| Detail of Pauline Bonaparte's face |
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| Her feet are pressing into the delicate cushions |
Other sculptures of interest
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