Polykleitos Canon reconstruction in Pompeii

The Pompeii Archaeological Park has unveiled a scientific bronze reconstruction of the ‘Canon of Polykleitos’, a foundational work of classical Greek sculpture. The project aims to provide an accurate representation of ancient human proportions and harmony through the use of polychromy, reflecting the historical reality that classical statues were colored.

The reconstruction was developed using two distinct models: a marble statue from the Sannitic Gymnasium in Pompeii for the body and a bronze bust from the Villa of the Papyri in Herculaneum for the head. Archaeological research suggests the figure may have held a javelin rather than a spear.

The initiative utilized authentic molds from the historic Chiurazzi Foundry, which the archaeological park acquired to prevent the collection from being dispersed abroad. Italian Minister of Culture Alessandro Giuli noted that the project’s significance “transcends aesthetic value and touches upon cultural, artistic, and philological heritage,” marking a new program that combines scientific research with heritage protection and the promotion of ancient art.