Ilioneus in Munich

Sculpture of Ilioneus in the Glyptothek in Munich

Maybe somewhat surprising to the modern visitor, the marble sculpture of Ilioneus was considered the true gem of the Glyptothek for much of the 19th century. It was also the most expensive sculpture bought by Ludwig — it cost 50% more than the Barberini Faun. This marble of a naked youth kneeling is considered a Greek original from around 300 BC — his head and arms are missing. It shows Ilioneus, the youngest of Niobe’s seven sons (according to Ovid), just before he is killed by the arrows of Apollo and Artemis.