Hercules, Capitoline Museum

2nd century BCE, based on Greek models of the 4th century BCE, close to the Lysippic style
gilded bronze




A Roman sculpture in Lysippus' style

The official guide to the Capitoline Museums states that this sculpture was probably a cult statue within the round temple dedicated to Hercules in the Forum Boarium. Two of Hercules' identifying symbols are included--his club and the golden apples of the Hesperides.

While this Roman work may be a second century BCE product, it is based on Greek models of the fourth century BCE, especially works in the Lysippic style. Specifically, this is an athletic figure with exaggerated musculature and the body proportions are altered; height is emphasized because of the unnaturally small head--all qualities related to Lysippus' works.
 




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© 2006 Mary Ann Sullivan. I have photographed (on site), scanned, and manipulated all the images on these pages. Please feel free to use them for personal or educational purposes. They are not available for commercial purposes.