The Kroisos Kouros, 530 BC, marble, National Archaeological Museum of Athens.
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I’ve seen the various Kouroi and to me, although they represent the start of a more natural way the body is carved, they still have that rather rigid and idealistic expression which would set the tone, gradually becoming ‘smoother’ until (as far as I can remember) the Roman emperor Trajan had his statues made the way he was. I took classes in ‘Antique Culture’, and this was one of the subjects.
Wandering through Athens’ museum, I could see the evolution in statues, in stone and in bronze.
I’ve seen the various Kouroi and to me, although they represent the start of a more natural way the body is carved, they still have that rather rigid and idealistic expression which would set the tone, gradually becoming ‘smoother’ until (as far as I can remember) the Roman emperor Trajan had his statues made the way he was. I took classes in ‘Antique Culture’, and this was one of the subjects.
Wandering through Athens’ museum, I could see the evolution in statues, in stone and in bronze.
The ‘Poseidon’ for example has lost all rigidity.
A fascinating world and a trip down memory lane.
Thanks, Michael, for showing this.
A sculptural baby step ☺️. Thank you for sharing your insights on this beautiful work of art!