Colossus of the Naxians

The colossus is an example of archaic monumental sculpture and dates to the end of the seventh century BC.

On the upper side of the lower torso there was a 20–30 cm wide bronze belt, which may have been discerned from the series of pinholes in the marble.

[4] The colossus originated at a marble quarry near Melanes [de] on the Cycladian island of Naxos.

It was not carved there, except for the most basic shaping and was transported to the port of Naxos, about ten kilometres away.

The statue stood in a prominent place, so that it could be seen from a distance and was taller than all known buildings on the island at the time.