The Mighty Zeus of Artemision

This fifth-century bronze sculpture was found in an ancient shipwreck near modern-day Cape Artemision, on the Greek island of Euboea. Archaeologists believe that the ship was travelling to Rome and was attacked by pirates along the way.

Classical bronze sculptures, like this one, have rarely survived across the centuries. This is because they were often melted down to make bronze armour in times of war.

This sculpture depicts a god, with one arm outstretched, preparing to throw an object with his other powerful arm. However, the object that the god was throwing is lost. If the sculpture was holding a lightning bolt, then it would represent Zeus, king of gods. If he was holding a trident - it may be Poseidon - god of the seas! Even archaeologists aren't exactly sure.

Who do you think this sculpture represents?

Zeus of Artemision, ca. 460 BCE. National Archaeological Museum, Athens, Greece. Image: Courtesy of Vanni / Art Resource, NY. You can see a replica of this statue at the Hellenic Museum!