Diana

MilwaukeeUnited States of America 43° N · 87° W Updated Oct 2026

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a city where history, art, and culture intertwine to create a dynamic visitor experience, particularly for those interested in the…

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About Diana in Milwaukee

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has public art, museums, murals, and cultural events that offer ways to explore classical and contemporary artistic themes. Its best-known Diana-related artwork is Diana of the Chase, a bronze sculpture by Anna Hyatt Huntington that appears seasonally as part of Sculpture Milwaukee.

There is no statue of Diana, Princess of Wales, in Milwaukee. Public art and historical sites around the city do, however, reflect themes associated with both the mythological Diana and the humanitarian Diana. In Roman mythology, Diana represents the hunt, wilderness, and childbirth; she is also associated with independence, empowerment, and a connection to nature (Mythology Worldwide).

Milwaukee’s sculptures, murals, and installations contribute to the city’s urban identity and make art accessible in its neighborhoods and streets (Visit Milwaukee).

History

Diana of the Chase

Created in 1922, Diana of the Chase is a bronze sculpture by Anna Hyatt Huntington depicting Diana in motion with her hound. Only five castings exist worldwide, making Milwaukee’s installation a rare example (Buccacio Sculpture Services, 2023). Buccacio Sculpture Services has restored the sculpture to maintain its bronze patina and fine detailing (Buccacio Sculpture Services, 2023).

Diana of Versailles

The Diana of Versailles is an iconic marble sculpture of the Roman goddess Diana, known as Artemis in Greek mythology. It is a Roman copy from the late 1st or early 2nd century CE, modeled after a lost Greek bronze original attributed to Leochares, circa 325 BCE (GradesFixer; World History Edu). Roman copies of Greek works reflected the esteem in which Greek art was held and a desire for cultural continuity.

Discovered during the Renaissance, possibly at the Temple of Diana at Nemi or at Hadrian’s Villa in Tivoli, the statue entered the French royal collection when Pope Paul IV gave it to King Henry II in 1556 (World History Edu). It was first displayed at the Château de Fontainebleau and later installed at the Palace of Versailles by Louis XIV as a symbol of royal authority and classical grandeur (PaperBro). The statue also had personal significance for Henry II because of its association with his mistress, Diane de Poitiers (World History Edu).

Today, the Diana of Versailles is part of the Louvre Museum’s classical sculpture collection (GradesFixer). Standing over 2 meters tall, it shows Diana in a dynamic stride, reaching for an arrow and accompanied by a small deer. Its drapery and pose reflect classical Greek ideals of harmony and movement. Restorations over the centuries have altered some features, reflecting preservation needs and changing tastes (World History Edu).

The statue embodies strength, independence, protection, and fertility. It inspired numerous artists and replicas, including works by Hubert Le Sueur and Guillaume Coustou (World History Edu). Its influence extends beyond fine art, with contemporary artists and scholars also exploring its associations with elegance and feminine power (PaperBro).

What to See

Diana of the Chase and Sculpture Milwaukee

Sculpture Milwaukee turns downtown into a free, open-air exhibition each summer and fall. It features international and local artists, and sometimes includes works inspired by classical mythology (Sculpture Milwaukee; Visit Milwaukee). Diana of the Chase is featured seasonally, usually along Wisconsin Avenue or in nearby public spaces. During the exhibition’s run, the route is accessible 24/7.

Murals and Other Public Art

Black Cat Alley and other mural sites showcase community art, often incorporating themes of resilience and empowerment. These outdoor spaces are free and open from dawn to dusk, and are accessible on foot or by bike. Black Cat Alley also hosts community events (Visit Milwaukee, 2024).

Museums and Galleries

The Milwaukee Art Museum holds more than 32,000 works and presents exhibitions exploring femininity, power, and transformation. It is an architectural landmark with a world-class collection (Visit Milwaukee; Nomadasaurus, 2024). Gallery 218 and the Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum feature rotating exhibitions, sometimes reinterpreting classical motifs in contemporary contexts.

Diana of Versailles at the Louvre

The Diana of Versailles is in the Louvre Museum’s Denon Wing, Room 399, at Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

Louvre Museum Map

Map of the Louvre Museum Denon Wing (Image Credit: Louvre official website)

Practical Visiting Information

Diana of the Chase and Sculpture Milwaukee

  • Hours Free and open 24/7 during the exhibition season. Sculpture Milwaukee runs each summer and fall; the Diana installation is usually available from early summer to early fall.
  • Admission No tickets are required (Sculpture Milwaukee).
  • Accessibility The exhibition route is fully accessible.
  • Parking Public garages and street parking are nearby.
  • Public transit Multiple Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) bus routes and The Hop streetcar reach downtown.
  • Guided tours Sculpture Milwaukee offers guided and educational tours; schedules are available on its website.

Milwaukee Art Museum and Other Art Venues

The Milwaukee Art Museum is open Tuesday–Sunday. General admission is $10–$19 (Visit Milwaukee). Most outdoor art and major museums are wheelchair accessible; check individual venue policies for details.

Diana of Versailles at the Louvre

  • Hours Open daily except Tuesdays, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM, with extended hours until 9:45 PM on Wednesdays and Fridays. Check the Louvre’s official site for updates.
  • Tickets €17 online or €15 at the museum; free for EU residents under 26 and other eligible groups.
  • Accessibility The Louvre is fully wheelchair accessible; wheelchairs are available on request.
  • Guided tours Tours are available in multiple languages, and audio guides highlight the Diana of Versailles and other masterpieces.

Tips

  • Summer and early fall offer comfortable weather and full access to the Sculpture Milwaukee exhibition.
  • Photography is encouraged at Diana of the Chase, but climbing on or touching the sculpture is prohibited.
  • Self-guided walking tours are available through apps such as GPSmyCity (GPSmyCity Monuments and Statues Walking Tour).
  • Many public art installations can be reached on foot or by bike. The Hop streetcar and MCTS also connect visitors with sites around Milwaukee.

Nearby Places and Events

The Milwaukee Riverwalk, museums, and local dining are within walking distance of Diana of the Chase. Other nearby or related attractions include:

Gallery Night takes place quarterly across the city, and the Lakefront Festival of Art is held annually in June. Both invite the public to engage with Milwaukee’s arts scene, including work inspired by mythological and historical figures such as Diana. Family-friendly museums and seasonal festivals such as Summerfest and Bastille Days add to the city’s cultural offerings (OnMilwaukee, 2024).

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the visiting hours for Diana of the Chase?
The sculpture is displayed outdoors as part of Sculpture Milwaukee and is accessible 24/7 during the exhibition season.

Is there a ticket fee for viewing Diana of the Chase or Sculpture Milwaukee?
No. Both are free and open to the public.

Is the artwork accessible to wheelchair users?
Yes. Sculpture Milwaukee’s exhibition route and major museums are wheelchair accessible.

Are guided tours available?
Sculpture Milwaukee offers guided tours. Check its website for current schedules.

What attractions are nearby?
Nearby attractions include the Milwaukee Art Museum, Riverwalk, Historic Third Ward, and other public art installations.

For personalized itineraries, navigation, and updates, the Audiala app is suggested. Visitors can also share their experiences using #VISITMKE.