Collection Item

From:UC Teece Museum of Classical Antiquities

Name/TitlePlaster Cast of Head of Alexander the Great

About this objectThis is a plaster cast copy of the original artifact found at the Acropolis in Athens. The original marble head of Alexander the Great dates to the end of the Classical period, when Alexander was around 20 years old.

The original work is attributed to the sculptor Leochares, who is said to have sculpted the Apollo Belvedere. Leochares is also famed for his work on the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Given the location in which it was found, the original statue is most likely to have been an dedicatory statue.

The style of this portrait shows the development of the Classical style. Alexander's elaborate hair appears almost like a mane, as it falls over his forehead covering his ears. This not only reflects his youth, but also the way in which Alexander was 'lionised' for his military achievements. Alexander’s eyes are set deep into his face under strong brows. This may be an over-emphasis of his features in order to achieve greater contrast.

Alexander III, king of Macedonia, was a renowned military leader who conquered one of the largest empires the world had yet seen. After regaining control of the Greek city states, he began an eleven year campaign, conquering Persia and reaching as far east as India. He founded numerous cities and engaged with many peoples and cultures. Such was Alexander's reputation throughout the ancient world that sculptures of him, like this heroic Greek portrait, were even produced in Roman times. Alexander's achievements and military success was something the Romans could understand and admire, especially as Rome looked to expand its own borders into unknown territories.

MakerMinistry of Culture Archaeological Receipts Fund

Maker RoleCasting and Copying Workshop

Date Madeca. 1988-1989

PeriodLate Classical

Place MadeGreece; Athens

Medium and MaterialsPlaster

Style and IconographyClassical

TechniqueCasting (process)

Measurements350mm x 210mm x 240mm

Subject and Association KeywordsHeroes in art

Subject and Association KeywordsKings and rulers in art

Subject and Association KeywordsEmperors

Named CollectionThe James Logie Memorial Collection, University of Canterbury, New Zealand

Credit LinePurchased, 1996.

Object TypeSculpture

Object numberCC24

Copyright LicenceAll rights reserved