The Statue of Apollo, standing at a height of approximately 2.2 meters, is an artifact dating to the Classical period, circa late 5th to early 4th century B.C. It is potentially the work of notable sculptors Phidias or Praxiteles. Carved from one block of Parian marble, a stone valued for its diaphanous quality, the statue exhibits the blend of idealism and realism characteristic of Classical Greek Art.
The figure is positioned in a Contrapposto stance, a traditional Greek pose depicting both composure and preparedness to suggest dynamic motion. This posture presents an accurate representation of human anatomy with body weight resting on one foot, balancing the body resulting in a naturally curved posture. Detailed rendering of the muscles, facial features, and drapery folds reflects the artist's profound knowledge of human anatomy and fabric handling.
The statue portrays a youthful, muscular male figure, nude except for a chlamys or cloak hanging over his left shoulder and back. His intricately sculpted wavy hair is adorned with a laurel wreath, signifying victory and rank in Ancient Greek civilization.
Reflecting a slight lean toward its left, the statue's right arm is shown in an extended position, possibly for holding a bow, while the now missing left hand could have rested on a prop such as a pillar or tree, often associated with Apollo.
Identified as Apollo, the Greek deity for music, truth, prophecy, healing, sun, and light, the figure epitomizes youthful elegance and the traditional depiction of the god's physical attractiveness.
Despite the passage of time, the statue maintains significant detail and grandeur, indicating Phidias or Praxiteles' artistic dexterity. Residual red and blue pigment implies the statue was once painted vibrantly, which follows the Greek polychromy tradition.
