Pompeii unveils bronze reconstruction of Polykleitos Canon

A scientific bronze reconstruction of the ‘Canon of Polykleitos’, a masterpiece of ancient Greek sculpture, has been unveiled at the Pompeii Archaeological Park in Italy. The reproduction was created using authentic molds from the historic Italian Chiurazzi foundry, which were acquired by the archaeological park.

The Canon of Polykleitos is a seminal work of classical sculpture that established mathematical proportions for the ideal human body, emphasizing harmony and the contrapposto stance. This initiative aims to utilize the historical Chiurazzi molds to protect them from being dispersed abroad while making ancient art more accessible to the public.

Italian Minister of Culture Alessandro Giuli emphasized the significance of the reconstruction, stating that its importance transcends aesthetic value and touches upon cultural, artistic, and philological heritage. The project marks the beginning of a program combining scientific research, heritage protection, and the promotion of ancient art through the practice of creating high-quality reproductions.