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5 votes
Myron

Discobolos
Roman marble copy after a bronze original
ca. 450 B.C.E

Classical sculpture puts primacy on the naturalistic depiction of the human figure, rendered in terms of idealized proportions

Discobolos, or discus thrower, the quintessential image of a Greek athlete

A) Lysippos
B) Myron
C) Polykleitos
D) Praxiteles

1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

Myron was a Greek sculptor who lived and worked in the 5th century BCE. He is known for his naturalistic depictions of the human figure, particularly in his sculpture of the discus thrower, known as Discobolos, thus the correct option is B.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer is B) Myron. Myron was a Greek sculptor who lived and worked in the 5th century BCE. He is known for his naturalistic depictions of the human figure, particularly in his sculpture of the discus thrower, known as Discobolos. This sculpture is considered one of the most iconic and influential pieces of Classical sculpture, embodying the idealized proportions and athletic grace of the Greek athlete.

Myron's Discobolos is a perfect representation of the Classical style, which prioritized the realistic depiction of the human body. The sculpture captures a moment of intense physical exertion and demonstrates Myron's mastery of anatomical accuracy. The figure is shown in a dynamic pose, with his weight shifted onto one leg and his body twisted in preparation for the throw. This sense of movement and energy is emphasized by the carefully crafted musculature and the taut, sinewy lines of the figure's body.

In terms of idealized proportions, Myron's Discobolos follows the canon established by the sculptor Polykleitos. The figure is depicted in the contrapposto stance, with the weight of the body distributed asymmetrically. This creates a sense of harmony and balance, as well as a lifelike quality that was highly valued in Classical sculpture. Myron also adheres to the idealized proportions of the human body, with the figure's head, torso, and limbs all following a mathematical ratio known as the 'golden mean.' This ratio, based on the Fibonacci sequence, was believed to represent perfect beauty and balance.

In conclusion, Myron's Discobolos is a masterpiece of Classical sculpture that exemplifies the ideals of naturalism, idealized proportions, and athletic beauty. Myron's skillful use of form and proportion, as well as his ability to capture a moment of intense physicality, make this sculpture a timeless representation of the Greek athlete and a testament to the enduring legacy of Classical art.

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