Polykleitos, master of perfect proportions! His style, a cornerstone of Classical Greek sculpture, focused on achieving idealized human beauty through mathematically precise ratios and balance.
Key characteristics:
- Contrapposto: A natural, weight-shift pose, giving figures a subtle "S" curve and lifelike dynamism.
- Symmetria: Strict adherence to mathematical ratios for harmonious proportions, making him known as the ratio-nal sculptor.
- Idealism: Sculptures represented the perfect version of the human form, not necessarily a specific individual.
- Calm and restrained: Emotions are subtle, emphasizing intellectual and physical perfection.
- The Canon: Polykleitos wrote (and sculpted) about his principles. His most famous statue, the Doryphoros (Spear-Bearer), was intended as a visual representation of these principles.
Tie his name to his style: Think "Polyshed perfection": Polykleitos aimed to sculpt the perfect human form through meticulous ratios and balance. He believed in "Poly"-ing (applying) his Canon, leading to beautiful, harmonious figures.
Title: Doryphoros (Spear-Bearer), Polykleitos (article) | Khan Academy
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Title: Polyclitus | Classical Greek Sculptor, Symmetria | Britannica
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Title: Doryphoros (Spear-Bearer), Polykleitos (article) | Khan Academy
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Title: Athlete, known as 'The Doryphorous', det - Polykleitos in Pompeii ...
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Title: Copy of work attributed to Polykleitos | Marble statue of Hermes ...
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Title: Greece, Argolis, Heraion of Argos Head of Hera, Attributed to the ...
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Title: Classical Greek sculpture - Wikipedia
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Title: Polykleitos and His Followers at Work || Artistry in Bronze
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