Bronze statue of Zeus or Poseidon

National Archeological Museum, Athens, Greece

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Material Bronze
Date range ca. 460 BC
Origin Found in the sea of Cape Artemision, northern Euboea.

This grand bronze statue represents a powerful god from ancient Greek religion, most likely Zeus or Poseidon. Because he was found in the sea, his identity is still debated. He is captured in a holy moment of action, ready to throw either a thunderbolt or a trident.

Museum label reference:

X 15161. Bronze statue of Zeus or Poseidon. Found in the sea of Cape Artemision, in northern Euboea. The god, shown in great stride, extends his left arm before his body, while holding a thunderbolt or trident in his right hand. His identification as Zeus or Poseidon is controversial (the former identification is more probable). It is one of the few preserved original statues of the Severe Style, notable for the exquisite rendering of motion and anatomy. It is certainly the work of a great sculptor of the early Classical period. ca. 460 BC.

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The Artemision bronze statue of a god, likely Zeus or Poseidon, in a powerful stride

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Source:  Athens, Greece