This elaborate marble statue is from the ancient city of Cyrene, Libya circa 460-450 BC. This statue embodies the Classical Greek period and illustrates key aspects of ancient Greek mythology and societal norms.
The statue measures approximately 2.29 meters in height and portrays a young male figure defeating a serpentine entity. Constructed atop a sturdy base, the male is displayed erect and exudes physical prowess, demonstrating the characteristic depiction of heroes during the period.
The sculpture features the male figure in a style representative of the classical era, with high-precision facial details and a well-proportioned body. He is portrayed with a bow in his left hand, while his right hand is missing, possibly originally holding an arrow. The arrangement of the hands suggests a moment of imminent action, underscored with dynamism and intensity.
The snake, rising from a tree stump and forming an arc, is detailed with an intricate scale pattern and bent in a manner suggesting movement. This figure likely represents Python - the mythical earth-dragon of Delphi in Greek mythology.
The artifact recount the mythological event where Apollo, the Greek god of light, sun, truth, and prophecy overcame Python, the serpent-guardian of the Delphi oracle. The statue, once cherished in the Temple of Apollo at Cyrene, echoes Apollo's youth and divine prowess.
