18th Century Art

Description

Perseus with the Head of Medusa, by Antonio Canova, 1790

Source: www.metmuseum.org

Analyze

Interpret

With sword in hand, the legendary Greek hero Perseus demonstrates the head of Medusa.

Diagonal lines in the arm creates the illusion that it's in motion.

The use of contrapposto makes the sculpture more lifelike.

The robes that fall behind Perseus helps balance out the artwork.

The sculptor's decision to carve Perseus' head to his side guides the viewer to Medusa's head.

I believe Canova was attempting to show how heroic Perseus is viewed by the Greeks. Heroes were a central part of Greek culture, specifically Greek mythology. Canova was sure to include his sword and to carve a horrified expression on Medusa's face. Both details display Perseus' might.