The discobolus is a statue representing an athlete throwing the discus. It is generally attributed to Myron, an Athenian sculptor of the 5th century BC, who was famous for his representations of athletes in action. The discobolus is considered an emblematic work of ancient Greek art, because it illustrates the ideals of beauty, harmony and dynamism that characterized this period.
The history of the discobolus
The original discobolus was made of bronze and measured about 1.56 meters high. It was made around 460-450 BC, at the time of the first Greek classicism. This period is characterized by a concern for balance and proportion in the representation of the human body, as well as by a search for formal perfection and natural movement.
The discobolus was mentioned by several ancient authors, such as Pliny the Elder, who cites it in his list of Myron’s works. It was also reproduced on coins and Greek vases. However, the original bronze disappeared, probably melted or destroyed during the barbarian invasions.
Fortunately, several Roman copies in marble have come down to us, which allow us to appreciate the beauty and finesse of the work. The most famous is that of the Lancellotti discobolus, preserved in the National Roman Museum. It dates from the 2nd century AD and was discovered in 1781 in the Palombara villa in Rome.
The representation of the discobolus
The discobolus represents a young man naked, with prominent muscles and regular features. He is caught at the moment when he is about to throw the discus, which he holds in his right hand. His body is bent forward, in a posture that expresses both tension and grace. His head is turned to the left, towards the point where he will direct his throw.
The discobolus illustrates Myron’s mastery in representing movement. The sculptor managed to create an impression of dynamism and rhythm, by playing on the contrasts between the parts of the body. Thus, the right arm is stretched, while the left arm is bent; the right leg is flexed, while the left leg is stretched; the torso is inclined, while the hips are raised.
The discobolus also illustrates the ideal of Greek beauty, based on the notion of kalokagathia, that is, the union of beauty and goodness. The body of the discobolus is harmonious and proportionate, conforming to the canons of the time. It reflects the nobility of soul and virtue of the athlete, who strives to surpass his limits and approach the gods.
The posterity of the discobolus
The discobolus had a great influence on Western art, especially in the Renaissance and in the 19th century. It inspired many artists, who took up its theme or pose. For example, Michelangelo painted a discus thrower on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel; Rodin sculpted a thinker who takes up the posture of the discobolus; Matisse drew a stylized discus thrower in his Jazz series.
The discobolus also became a universal symbol of sport and Olympism. It evokes the Greek origins of the Olympic Games, as well as the values of competition, excellence and sports ethics. It has been used as an emblem by several international sports organizations, such as the International Olympic Committee or the International Athletics Federation.
The discobolus is therefore a major work of ancient Greek art, which testifies to Myron’s genius and his time. It has been admired for more than two millennia for its beauty, harmony and dynamism. It also carries a universal message about self transcendence and ideal pursuit.
