Torso of a nude young man, Spear-bearer or Doryphoros, The Pourtales Torso

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The Pourtalès torso is a fragmentary marble copy of the renowned Doryphoros (Greek for Spear-Bearer) sculpture by Polykleitos, dating back to 440 BC. Depicting a robust warrior standing tall with a spear balanced on his left shoulder, this masterpiece was originally rendered in bronze but survives today only through Roman period copies like the one displayed here. Found in Rome's Palatine hill in 1873 within a Salesian monastery, the Pourtalès torso initially bore its name from the collection it was part of until 1924. It is now housed in Berlin's Antikensammlung (inv. 1789), where it remains an integral piece in showcasing ancient art's early influences. As one of the earliest examples of Classical Greek contrapposto and classical realism, the Pourtalès torso has had a profound impact on the development of art throughout history. Its iconic status is a testament to Polykleitos' innovative style, which paved the way for future artists to build upon his techniques.