Full Figure Of Zeus (also called Poseidon--460-450B.C.).The male figure with his arms extended is one of the most popular statues in The National Museum in Athens. Whether it is considered as Poseidon or Zeus, it is one of the greatest bronze statues of the fifth century B.C. Zeus, the chief of the Olympian gods, during this period, following the defeat of the invading Persians, the Greeks gave their deepest gratitude to Zeus for his help in their defense. The massive temple to his honor at Olympia was constructed contemporaneously with the fashioning of this statue. Although the object held in the right hand has been lost it is conjectured that it was a short cylindrical thunderbolt being hurled by the retracted arm.
