metopes

Question 1

When and where is the Herakles and the
Kerkopes metope?

Answer 1

Metope from Temple C at Selinus in Sicily
c575-550BC

Question 2

What is the story behind Herakles and the
Kerkopes metope?

Answer 2

One day when he was sleeping, the Kerkopes (= woodland spirits) stole Herakles’ weapons
Herakles caught up with them and carried them off,
suspended upside down on a pole across his shoulders.

Question 3

What is some backround knowledge about the Herakles and the
Kerkopes metope?

Answer 3

Metope = approx 1.5m tall but carved in very shallow relief
a very 2D feel / minimal rounding of the figures
Comprises three bold figures and instantly recognisable from the story
Material = limestone

Question 4

What is the compositional structure of Herakles and the
Kerkopes metope?

Answer 4

Central focus- Herakles ‘ upper torso,
Balanced by Kerkopes’ shape mirrors each other

Question 5

What is the compositional structure on the Herakles and the
Kerkopes metope?

Answer 5

Dominant central figure, taking up most of the available space
Impossible twist to create a sense of movement
Walking but both legs straight and flat on the ground

Question 6

What typical archaic characteristics can be seen on the Herakles and the
Kerkopes metope?

Answer 6

full frontal feel, no twists in torso/pectorals/knees., Symmetrical faces, archaic smile, bug eyes, and heavy eye: eyelid parallelism, some attempt at anatomy H’s calf muscles)