Ariadne on the Panther (front view)

This masterpiece of Dannecker is considered by some to be a modern classic, and is perhaps one of the best-known German sculptures of the 19th century. Dannecker follows none of the mythological precedents in his representation. He shows Ariadne riding, lying in divine nakedness on one of Dionysius’ panthers. Overall, the pose creates a contour of extended repose, embracing the whole sculpture.

When Frankfurt was bombed in October 1943, the sculpture was seriously damaged. It was restored only in 1977-78.