The design for "Flight From Pompeii" was by Benzoni, but contrary to popular belief the statue was not sculpted by him. On a visit to Ballarat in 1900 the sculptor Charles Francis Summers (born in Victoria), disclosed that the original, standing only 4 feet 6 inches (approximately 1.5 metres) was in his studio in Rome. Summers said in an interview that shortly before his death Benzoni decided to reproduce the group in heroic proportions. Work had already commenced to 'rough out' the larger statue when Benzoni died. Mr Summers went on with the work which he said was his, although the design is by Benzoni. (from Ballarat history see link below)
