Canon of Polykleitos

Definition

The canon of Polykleitos refers to a set of ideal mathematical proportions for the human figure developed by the ancient Greek sculptor Polykleitos in the 5th century BCE. This concept emphasizes harmony and balance in the depiction of the human body, showcasing an idealized standard of beauty through precise measurements and a contrapposto stance, which conveys both movement and stability.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Polykleitos wrote a treatise called 'Kanon', which outlined his ideas on ideal proportions and served as a guide for artists.
2. The canon emphasizes the use of mathematical ratios, such as the head-to-body ratio, to create an aesthetically pleasing representation of the human form.
3. Polykleitos' most famous sculpture that embodies his canon is the 'Doryphoros' or 'Spear Bearer', which illustrates his principles of balance and proportion.
4. The influence of the canon extended beyond Polykleitos' time, impacting later artists and sculptors throughout history who sought to achieve similar ideals.
5. The emphasis on contrapposto in Polykleitos' work represents a significant shift toward more naturalistic representations in Greek art.

Review Questions

• How did Polykleitos' canon influence the development of classical sculpture?
  • Polykleitos' canon established a systematic approach to representing the human figure through ideal proportions and balance. His emphasis on mathematical ratios and contrapposto led to more naturalistic forms in classical sculpture. This set a standard that influenced not only his contemporaries but also future generations of artists who sought to achieve similar ideals in their work.
• Discuss the role of contrapposto in the canon of Polykleitos and its significance in art history.
  • Contrapposto plays a crucial role in Polykleitos' canon, as it introduces a sense of dynamism and lifelike quality to sculptures. By distributing weight unevenly on one leg, figures appear more relaxed and realistic. This technique marked a pivotal moment in art history, moving away from rigid poses toward more fluid representations that became foundational for later developments in classical art.
• Evaluate how the canon of Polykleitos reflects broader cultural values in ancient Greece regarding beauty and proportion.
  • The canon of Polykleitos not only establishes technical standards for artistic representation but also mirrors ancient Greek cultural values centered around beauty, harmony, and the human form. The ideal proportions suggest a philosophical belief in order and balance within nature, reflecting societal admiration for physical perfection as a reflection of moral virtue. This artistic pursuit reveals how deeply interconnected aesthetics were with broader concepts of ethics and philosophy in ancient Greek culture.

Related terms

Contrapposto: A pose in sculpture where the weight of the body is distributed unevenly on one leg, creating a sense of dynamism and naturalism.

Chiaroscuro: A technique used in visual arts to create a strong contrast between light and dark, enhancing three-dimensionality.

Sculpture in the Round: A three-dimensional sculpture that is meant to be viewed from all angles, allowing for a complete appreciation of form and volume.