Kritios Boy

As currently mounted, the statue is considerably smaller than life-size at 117 cm (3 ft 10 ins),[1][3] including the supports that replace the missing feet.

[7] Among classic Greek sculptures, the Kritios Boy expresses a set of proportions known as the "Canon of Polyclitus" [8][9] It set the rule for later sculptors like Praxiteles and Lysippos, whose contrapposto, or ponderation, is more emphasised than the "subtle equilibrium of outline and axis which is to be the basis of classical art"[2] exhibited by the Kritios Boy's "delicate balance of movement"[2] It is possible that earlier bronze statues had used contraposty, but have not survived.

[10] The Kritios Boy exhibits a number of other critical innovations that distinguish it from the Archaic Kouroi from the seventh and sixth century BC that paved its way.

The muscular and skeletal structure of Kritios Boy are depicted with unforced lifelike accuracy of flesh and bone, with the rib cage naturally expanded as if in the act of breathing, with a relaxed attitude and hips which are distinctly narrower.

[7][11] As a final forebear of the classical period, the archaic smile has been completely replaced by the accurate rendering of the lips and the austere expression that characterized the transitional Severe style.