Pénélope

"Pénélope" by Pierre-Jules Cavelier is a statue that depicts the wife of Odysseus in Greek mythology. In Homer's epic poem, "The Odyssey," Penelope is known for her faithfulness to her husband while he was away on his long journey home. Penelope was pressured to chose a new spouse but remains faithful to her husband. She declares that she will make her choice once the weaving of her father-in-law Laertes'burial shroud has been completed. Every night for three years the Queen undoes the work completed that day, until one of her serving women reveals her ploy. The statue captures her grace and poise, as well as her strength and determination as she awaits the return of her beloved husband. This marble sculpture was first presented in 1848 at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts among the works produced by the residents and received high praise from the jury of the Académie de France in Rome. It subsequently triumphed at the 1849 Salon, receiving a first-class medal and a medal of honour.