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| Hoplite Statuette (about 530 BC) Francavilla Marittima, sanctuary of Athena Bronze, cast, incised Museo Nazionale Archeologico della Sibaritide, inv. 65144; inv. 65148 [Cat. no. 28] |
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Hoplite Statuette (about 530 BC)
This small hoplite warrior, dated to the Archaic period, beautifully demonstrates the increased understanding of the human form in Greek sculpture. Still retaining some of the stiff and rigid qualities of the early Archaic period, his pose is that of a striding warrior heading into battle as he places his right leg before the left. His arms, bent at the elbows, may have once held a spear and shield, as the young warrior possesses a confidence and vitality not yet worn by battle. He wears a chest plate incised with circular designs, and his helmet, with its proud crest perched atop, conveys a readiness and energy any soldier would hope to have. His face is very archaic in that his almond-shaped eyes and slight smile do not reveal much inner consciousness. That will have to wait for the Classical period.Page 17 of 23 | On the next page: Youth of Agrigento (about 480 BC)