Dying Gaul (or Dying Gallic Trumpeter), Capitoline Museums

Epigonos?
about 220 BCE
Roman marble copy after a bronze original from Pergamon, Turkey; life size






It is thought that the original bronze was part of a statuary group on the Pergamon acropolis commemorating the victory of Attalos in 230 BCE over the Gauls. Although it represents a defeated enemy, it still records his heroism and bravery. It is typically Hellenistic in that it depicts pain expressively (his bleeding wound is obvious at his side) and in that it attempts to evoke an emotional response from the viewer.

This Hellenistic sculpture records accurately this barbarian/Celtic type: long bushy hair, mustache, and neck ornament--the torque. The beautifully executed athletic physique seems to indicate a respect for this fallen enemy.
 
 
The trumpeter lies on his oval shield with his trumpet at his feet. His downcast head suggests he is near death.
 




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© 2006 Mary Ann Sullivan. I have photographed (on site), scanned, and manipulated all the images on these pages. Please feel free to use them for personal or educational purposes. They are not available for commercial purposes.