Polykleitos

Definition

Polykleitos was a renowned ancient Greek sculptor from the 5th century BCE, famous for his innovative approach to proportion and the contrapposto stance in sculpture. His work emphasized ideal beauty through mathematical ratios and created a standard for human proportions, which significantly influenced classical art. The principles he developed can be seen in many sculptures that followed, showcasing the pursuit of harmony and balance in the human figure.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Polykleitos is best known for his statue 'Doryphoros', which served as a model for the ideal male athlete in classical Greek culture.
2. He believed that beauty could be defined mathematically, leading to his development of a system of proportions that artists would follow for centuries.
3. Polykleitos' sculptures often feature the contrapposto stance, which adds a sense of realism and movement to the figures.
4. His works emphasized balance and harmony, reflecting the Greek belief in the importance of both physical beauty and moral virtue.
5. The influence of Polykleitos extended beyond his lifetime, affecting Roman sculpture and later Renaissance artists who sought to revive classical ideals.

Review Questions

• How did Polykleitos' approach to proportion influence the development of classical sculpture?
  • Polykleitos revolutionized classical sculpture by establishing a canon of proportions that defined the ideal human form through mathematical ratios. This systematic approach allowed artists to create sculptures that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also conveyed a sense of realism. His influence can be seen in later works where artists adopted these proportions to depict figures that appeared both naturalistic and harmonious.
• Analyze the role of contrapposto in Polykleitos' sculptures and its significance in representing human figures.
  • Contrapposto played a crucial role in Polykleitos' work, allowing figures to appear more dynamic and lifelike. By shifting the weight onto one leg, his sculptures created a natural stance that suggested movement and fluidity. This technique not only enhanced the visual appeal but also mirrored the evolving understanding of human anatomy during the classical period, contributing to a more realistic portrayal of the human figure.
• Evaluate how Polykleitos' ideals regarding beauty and proportion influenced later artistic movements, including the Renaissance.
  • Polykleitos' exploration of beauty through proportion laid foundational principles that resonated through art history. His emphasis on symmetry and mathematical ratios provided a benchmark for artists in subsequent eras, particularly during the Renaissance when artists sought to revive classical ideals. Works by Renaissance masters often reflected Polykleitos' influence as they aimed for an idealized beauty that mirrored his standards, demonstrating how his impact transcended time and continued to shape artistic expression.

Related terms

Contrapposto: A sculptural technique where a figure is posed with most of its weight on one foot, creating a sense of dynamism and naturalism.

Doryphoros: A famous statue created by Polykleitos, also known as 'The Spear Bearer', which exemplifies his ideals of symmetry and proportion.

Canon of Proportions: A set of guidelines established by Polykleitos that defines the ideal mathematical proportions for the human body in sculpture.