Doryphoros: The Statue Of The Human Body

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Statue I displays the subject as a man of remarkable duration in action; the seemingly impossible biological conflict between his young body and mature head shows a successful man that desires to present his lasting legacy of experience and wealth.
The body of the Statue forms most of the sculpture and therefore is significant in its execution of symmetry, motion, and style as a means to display the subject as a man of action. Adapted from the Doryphoros of Polykleitos, this piece uses the contrapposto scheme in the symmetrical planes of the joints to convey realistic motion. Like Doryphoros, the system of contrasting joint pairs which traverse the vertical line of symmetry all stem from the right leg that bears his weight. As a result, his left knee drops down due to its lack of tension, and leads him to lift his left ankle above the right as he takes a step forward. The position of his right hand on his hip forces a downward slope in his right shoulder, which in turn drives his left should up. This natural body stance is detailed in embellished musculature and provokes the image of calm, yet heroic motion. His movement and demeanor are echoed by his clamus, which is a hallmark of a man who takes action. …show more content…

Though his body is one of youthful action, his head is one of mature thought. His head is turned slightly to the left, and the lines of his face exhibit near-perfect bilateral symmetry. The only motion displayed is in the small rotation of his sight, which is gaze of rumination. His pursed lips and the tightness around his mouth suggest a level of wisdom that comes from his advanced age. The natural lack of hair on his head and his evenly spaced, yet sagging ears, similarly are evidence of his maturity. The features of his head and expression tell the story of a sophisticated man that has developed a sense of poise and prudence over

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