Doryphoros; Spear Bearer by Polykleitos; 450-440 B.C. Located in Museo Nazionale in Naples. (Not the actual version; replica)
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- Doryphoros can be attributed to the early classical Greek era. His stance is a perfect example of new classical ideals in art and sculpture. With most of his weight leaning on one leg, Doryphoros exhibits a new method of sculpting called contrappasto. This stance is most important in establishing a more "real" image of the human figure. Later, in the Hellenistic period, Greek artists will take this practice even further to create incredibly lifelike figures.
- The artist behind Doryphoros, Polykleitos, created this sculpture seeking a perfect image based on proportions and rational ideals. Doryphoros is an example of his "canon" showing harmonious and balanced proportions.
- I chose this piece as one of my 25 because it exhibits a new take on art, one of careful observation and consideration. It is the beginning of a movement in which most future Greek and Western artists will be seeking to create the most lifelike of images. The canon is also one of the most influential factors in European art, reaching its influence in all forms of art, even in architecture.
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