In a world filled with such sadness and confusion, I think that is why it is such a pleasure to sit in the Boston Public Library courtyard and stare into these faces filled with such joy and awe. The actual name of the sculpture is Bacchante and Infant Faun. It is a replica of the bronze sculpture created by Frederick William MacMonnies.
You can read an interesting and very detailed analysis of the statue’s history in Boston and at the BPL via this link. In short, while treasured today, this naked figure serving the infant god, Bacchus, caused quite the uproar in 1890’s Boston. Imagine that. 😉
Words + Images 
Needed this. Thank you.
boston attitude towards propriety hasn’t changed much since the uproar over that beautiful sculpture….. it’s what has harmed boston from truly stepping out into the larger art world….
It’s a beautiful statue…joy, frozen in time.
A beautiful statue
I loved to see the title ‘joy’ in your header – knowing I would see something beautiful – that amazing face – joyful! What a peaceful spot to sit – thanks for the moment in the courtyard.
I bet it was considered racy for the time! Nice to see these statues as I have never been to that location 🙂
She is quite joyfully drunk, as a good bacchante should be. I’ve always enjoyed his skill at making a metal face flushed with wine. I am intrigued by the old accusation that she was “unquiet” Because a woman experiencing joy on her own, in her own body, putting herself out there for any reason, without a man, is threatening? Oh sure. Still is. Thanks for celebrating this really beautiful piece of Boston. I’ve loved them both for a long time. The joy on her face, the utter wonder on the baby’s…