Zeus or Poseidon of Artemision
This is one of the finest, but also one of the very few original bronze sculptures of the Classical period. The larger-than-life naked figure represents either Zeus or Poseidon in full stride. Despite its overall austerity, the figure conveys intense movement and the anatomy is beautifully rendered. The god has a thick beard and his long hair forms elegant curls around the forehead. The eyes, made in a different material (possibly glass or semi-precious stone), are missing. His left hand is outstretched while his raised right hand clutches a lighting bolt (Zeus) or trident (Poseidon). The sculpture, an exquisite example of the Severe Style, was executed by a very skilled artist, possibly the renowned sculptor Kalamis.