• Additional view of object
  • Additional view of object
  • Additional view of object
  • Additional view of object
  • Additional view of object
May 11, 2009
May 11, 2009
May 11, 2009
May 11, 2009

Statuette of an Athlete

Statuette of an Athlete

510–500 BC

Greece, Peloponnesus, late archaic - early classical period

Bronze (solid cast)

Overall: 21.5 cm (8 7/16 in.)

John L. Severance Fund 2000.6

Location

102B Greek

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Did you know?

This robust athlete exudes power, despite his damaged feet and missing hands.

Description

Striding forward with his right arm raised behind his head, this powerful figure conveys a naturalistic sense of form and movement associated with Greek sculpture created around 500 BC. Even without its right hand and the object it once held, other features of this statuette—especially its strong physique, posture, and clean-shaven face—all suggest that it represents an athlete, likely preparing to throw a javelin. For while the gods Zeus and Poseidon also strike similar poses in small bronzes of the period (holding a thunderbolt or trident, respectively), these gods would be bearded.

Video

Victorious Athlete
Victorious Athlete
The Classical Moment
The Classical Moment
Related content
See also
Collection: 
GR - Greek
Department: 
Greek and Roman Art
Type of artwork: 
Sculpture
Medium: 
Bronze (solid cast)
Credit line: 
John L. Severance Fund

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