The Augustus of Prima Porta is one of the most famous and iconic sculptures of the Roman Empire. It depicts the emperor Augustus in a heroic pose, wearing a toga and holding a spear. The sculpture was created around 20 BC and has been housed in the Vatican Museums since 1807.
One of the most striking things about the Augustus of Prima Porta is its resemblance to the Doryphoros, a Greek sculpture created by Polykleitos around 450 BC. The Doryphoros is also known as the “Spear Bearer” and depicts a young athlete holding a spear. The similarities between the two sculptures have led some scholars to believe that the Augustus of Prima Porta was based on the Doryphoros.
There are several pieces of evidence that support this theory. First, the two sculptures have a similar overall pose. Both figures are standing with their weight evenly distributed on both legs. They are also both holding a spear in their right hands.
Second, the two sculptures have similar body proportions. Both figures have a muscular build with a broad chest and narrow waist. They also have similar facial features, with a strong jaw and a straight nose.
Third, both sculptures were created using the same technique of contrapposto. Contrapposto is a technique in which the weight of the figure is shifted to one leg, causing the other leg to relax. This creates a sense of movement and dynamism in the sculpture.
Of course, there are also some differences between the two sculptures. The Augustus of Prima Porta is wearing a toga, while the Doryphoros is nude. The Augustus of Prima Porta is also older than the Doryphoros, and his face shows more signs of age.
Overall, the evidence suggests that the Augustus of Prima Porta was likely based on the Doryphoros. The two sculptures have a striking resemblance in terms of pose, body proportions, and technique. It is possible that the Roman sculptor who created the Augustus of Prima Porta used the Doryphoros as a model for his work.
Augustus and the Doryphoros: A Comparison
The following table compares the Augustus of Prima Porta and the Doryphoros in terms of their pose, body proportions, and technique:
| Feature | Augustus of Prima Porta | Doryphoros |
|---|---|---|
| Pose | Standing with weight evenly distributed on both legs, holding a spear in right hand | Standing with weight shifted to right leg, holding a spear in right hand |
| Body proportions | Muscular build with broad chest and narrow waist | Muscular build with broad chest and narrow waist |
| Facial features | Strong jaw and straight nose | Strong jaw and straight nose |
| Technique | Contrapposto | Contrapposto |
The Legacy of the Doryphoros
The Doryphoros was one of the most influential sculptures of the Greek world. It was widely copied and imitated by other artists, and its influence can be seen in sculptures throughout the history of art.
The Augustus of Prima Porta is one of the most famous examples of the Doryphoros’ influence. The Roman sculptor who created the Augustus of Prima Porta used the Doryphoros as a model for his work, and the two sculptures share many similarities.
The Doryphoros is not only a masterpiece of Greek sculpture, but it is also an important historical document. The sculpture provides valuable insights into the Greek ideal of beauty and the human body. The Doryphoros is a testament to the skill and artistry of the ancient Greeks, and it continues to inspire artists today.
Conclusion
The Augustus of Prima Porta is one of the most famous and iconic sculptures of the Roman Empire. It depicts the emperor Augustus in a heroic pose, wearing a toga and holding a spear. The sculpture was created around 20 BC and has been housed in the Vatican Museums since 1807.
The Augustus of Prima Porta bears a striking resemblance to the Doryphoros, a Greek sculpture created by Polykleitos around 450 BC. The two sculptures have a similar pose, body proportions, and technique. It is possible that the Roman sculptor who created the Augustus of Prima Porta used the Doryphoros as a model for his work.
The Doryphoros is one of the most influential sculptures of the Greek world. It was widely copied and imitated by other artists, and its influence can be seen in sculptures throughout the history of art. The Augustus of Prima Porta is one of the most famous examples of the Doryphoros’ influence.