An analysis of the Doryphoros (Polykleitos, 450 BCE) and Augustus of Primaporta (c. 20 BCE)

An analysis of the Doryphoros (Polykleitos, 450 BCE) and Augustus of Primaporta (c. 20 BCE)

            The Doryphoros is a Greek bronze sculpture made at around 450 BC. The sculpture, which the shows the perfectly harmonious and balanced proportion of the human body was made by Greek Sculptor, Polykleitos. Augustus of Primaporta is a Roman bronze sculpture that was made in 20 BC. The sculpture is 7 ft/ (2.08M) tall shows a young man in military uniform. There are a number of similarities and differences between the two sculptures.

A number of similarities exist between the tow sculptures. For instance, both sculptures are made of bronze and demonstrate the ideal nature of human proportions. The two structures feature barefoot men, which symbolizes or illustrates their divine status. The fact that the sculptures are barefoot also shows that they are made in honor of heroes in their society. Both are holding spears in their left hands. Doryphorus is naked while the Augustus of Primoporta is semi-naked. This illustrates the effort of the society in which they were made to search for harmony and beauty. Both sculptures are made of strength, harmony and beauty. The structures illustrate the perfect and flawless nature of leaders in society who had capacity to control what to control and stabilize society

There are also a number of differences between the two sculptures. For instance, Augustus of Primaporta has its hand raised as if he is giving a speech while Doryhporus has his hand lowered and he is walking. Another difference is in the intent that encouraged their making. Polyteikus made Dolyphorus was to illustrate the “Canon”=”rule” which stated that mathematical terms can be used to explain the relationship between the parts of the body. For instance, Polykleitos aimed to show that the head is one seventh of the body. On the other hand, the Sculpture aimed to illustrate the perfect leader in society.