October 10, 2024

233: Lysippos: Creating the Image of Alexander the Great

29 minutes

Soon after the study of the inscriptions of the Daochos Monument was published in 1897, an interest in the study of the sculptor Lysippos was renewed. The inscription on a statue base found at Pharsalos was discovered to be identical to a somewhat shorter epigram of Agias at Delphi, and the name Lysippos, presumably the statue’s sculptor, was written at the bottom of the Pharsalos inscription. When the statue of Agias at Delphi was reunited with its base, it became clear that the figure in Delphi was likely a replica of the one in Pharsalos. Like most of Lysippos’ works, the original statue was probably cast in bronze and predate the Delphi statue, although only by a few years. The research also reveals that the statues at Delphi were probably certainly sculpted by more than one artist, indicating a diversity of aesthetic influences at work. But Lysippos’ name was definitely recognizable.

Key Quotes:

"The Daochos Monument was a massive rectangular foundation with nine statues northeast of Delphi's Temple of Apollo terrace. Under each of the statues, barring one figure on the far right, there was an epigram describing the individual portrayed and listing their achievements."

"Lysippos was known as one of the three best Classical Greek sculptors of the 4th century BC, alongside Scopas of Paros and Praxiteles of Athens, playing a significant role in the artistic revolution of the Hellenistic period."

"Lysippos' statues were known for their thin proportions and their genuine naturalism. He studied nature and Polyclitus' Doryphoros canon of ideal male proportions, which he modified by constructing a smaller head and slimmer torso."

"It was Lysippos who sculpted Alexander the Great from the ruler’s childhood onward, and Alexander would not have any other sculptor portray him."

"According to Plutarch, Lysippos was the only one who succeeded in casting Alexander's distinguishing character and excellence in bronze, describing him as 'looking upwards with his face to the sky, as he used to stare with a slight inclination of the neck.'"

Discover the enduring legacy of Lysippos, the master sculptor who shaped the image of Alexander the Great and redefined art in the Hellenistic period. Dive into the world of classical Greek artistry and explore how Lysippos' innovations in naturalism and form influenced generations of artists. Uncover the secrets behind his statues, from the Daochos Monument to the iconic portrayals of Alexander. Visit MartiniFisher.com to learn more about this fascinating intersection of art and history (and see some images), and see how these timeless works continue to inspire today.

You will also find more images in the History Made Beautiful Instagram account.

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