Polykleitos

Polykleitos was a master sculptor during the 5th century BCE. He was a central figure in creating the Classical Greek style. This era focused on balance, clarity, and the beauty of the human form. Alongside famous artists like Pheidias and Myron, Polykleitos shaped the direction of Western art. Some ancient writers called him "The Sicyonian" to suggest he was from Sikyon. Others, such as Plato and Pausanias, called him "The Argive" because they believed he was from Argos.

Polykleitos is most famous for developing a mathematical system for the human body. He wrote a treatise known as the Canon. This book established a set of aesthetic principles to define ideal proportions. He believed that perfection was achieved through many numbers. This meant a statue should consist of clearly defined parts. These parts had to relate to one another through a system of mathematical ratios. This concept is known as symmetria, which refers to a precise commensurability of all parts.

To achieve symmetria, Polykleitos looked at the relationship between every body part. The physician Galen noted that the Canon defined beauty through these connections. He described measuring from finger to finger, and from the fingers to the palm and wrist. These measurements then related to the forearm and the upper arm. Art historian Richard Tobin suggested a specific geometric method for these proportions. He proposed that the Canon might use areal proportions based on the diagonal of a square. For example, the length of a middle finger bone might be the diagonal of a square based on the smallest bone.

This geometric process could be done using a simple tool. An artist could use a long cord with knots placed at specific intervals. These knots would represent the diagonal of a square drawn from a previous length. This method allowed for a geometric progression across the entire body. The distance from the crown of the head to the chin might equal the length of the forearm. The distance from the crown to the clavicle might equal the length of the upper arm. This rigorous calculation helped create a sense of organic vitality in his work.

A key part of his style was a pose called contrapposto. This is a method of visualizing the shifting balance of a body. In this pose, the figure places most of its weight on one leg. This creates a rhythmic contrast in the torso, as the pelvis and thorax tilt in opposite directions. The feet appear poised between standing and walking. This technique makes the statue seem to exist between movement and repose. This calculated pose became a standard formula in Greco-Roman and later European art.

Many of Polykleitos's most famous works were originally cast in bronze. Unfortunately, none of these original bronze sculptures have survived to the present day. We know about them through numerous Roman marble copies. One famous example is the Doryphoros, or "Spear Bearer." This statue was a typical Greek depiction of the beauty of the male body. It used the Canon to show an idealized, heroic figure. Another work was the Diadumenos, which shows a youth tying a headband. This gesture often represented victory in an athletic contest.

Polykleitos's influence extended far beyond his own lifetime. He established a school of followers that lasted for at least three generations. Ancient writers like Pliny the Elder identified about twenty sculptors in his school. These artists were defined by their adherence to his principles of balance. Notable successors included Skopas and Lysippus. Even his son, Polykleitos the Younger, became a significant figure. While the son was a minor sculptor, he became a major architect. He is famous for designing the great theatre at Epidaurus.