Doryphoros

Definition

The Doryphoros, or 'Spear-Bearer,' is a famous ancient Greek statue created by the sculptor Polykleitos in the 5th century BCE. It represents the ideal male form, showcasing the principles of symmetry and proportion that were central to Classical art during the Golden Age of Greece. The statue embodies the concept of 'kanon,' which refers to a set standard or model of beauty and athleticism, highlighting the Greek admiration for physical perfection.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Doryphoros is often considered a representation of the perfect athlete, emphasizing both physical strength and ideal beauty.
2. Polykleitos wrote a treatise known as 'Kanon,' where he outlined his theories on proportion and symmetry, influencing generations of artists.
3. The statue was originally crafted in bronze, but only Roman marble copies survive today, showcasing its enduring legacy.
4. The pose of the Doryphoros is characterized by contrapposto, where one leg bears weight while the other is relaxed, enhancing the statue's sense of movement.
5. The Doryphoros set a standard for subsequent sculptures and was influential in establishing classical ideals in Western art history.

Review Questions

• How does the Doryphoros exemplify the principles of symmetry and proportion defined by Polykleitos?
  • The Doryphoros exemplifies Polykleitos' principles through its careful attention to symmetry and proportion. Polykleitos believed that beauty could be achieved through mathematical ratios, which he applied in this sculpture. The balanced composition and harmonious proportions of the Doryphoros reflect these ideals, showcasing an athlete's physique that symbolizes perfection in both form and posture.
• Discuss the significance of contrapposto as seen in the Doryphoros and its impact on later sculptures.
  • Contrapposto is significant in the Doryphoros as it introduces a naturalistic stance that conveys movement and life. This technique allows for a more dynamic representation of the human figure compared to previous rigid styles. The use of contrapposto became a hallmark of Classical sculpture and influenced countless artists in both ancient and modern times, helping to establish a more relaxed and realistic portrayal of human figures.
• Evaluate how the concepts presented in the Doryphoros reflect broader cultural values of Ancient Greece during its Golden Age.
  • The concepts embodied in the Doryphoros reflect Ancient Greece's cultural values surrounding physical beauty, athleticism, and intellectual achievement during its Golden Age. The admiration for the ideal male form parallels Greece's celebration of athletic competitions like the Olympics, where physical prowess was esteemed. Furthermore, Polykleitos' theories on proportion symbolize a broader philosophical pursuit for order and harmony in art and life, illustrating how art served as a medium to communicate these societal ideals.

Related terms

Polykleitos: An influential Greek sculptor from the 5th century BCE, known for developing a canonical approach to proportions in sculpture, particularly evident in the Doryphoros.

Contrapposto: A pose in which one part of the body is turned in opposition to another part, giving a sense of dynamic movement, prominently featured in the Doryphoros.

Kanon: A term referring to the ideal proportions and standards of beauty set by Polykleitos, exemplified in his works like the Doryphoros.