Young Athlete (after a Greek prototype)

This Roman nude fuses the figural elements characteristic of several different statue types from the Classical Greek period (c.480–323 BCE).

The athlete’s overall stance recalls that of a sculpture illustrating a discus thrower at rest from the mid-fifth century BCE by Polyclitus (c.460–410 BCE), while his defined torso with its sinuous sway is reminiscent of the Andros Hermes type from the fourth century BCE. The youth’s tilted head also references Polyclitus, whereas his blank, placid face is more consistent with the early classical style (480–450 BCE).

As this work demonstrates, Roman artists interpreted and adapted pre-existing prototypes to suit the changing aesthetic requirements of their clients. And yet, despite drawing on several different traditions, the athlete’s proportions are harmonious and well balanced.

Tony Magnusson, Curator of European Art, 2016–18