Zeus enthroned
Marble, 74 x 46 x 45.6 cm, anonymous (Greek), c. 100 BC
J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles

An anonymous sculptor crafted a small marble statuette depicting Zeus, king of the Greek gods. This statuette is significantly smaller than the famed gold and ivory cult statue of Zeus by Phidias at Olympia, but it reflects a similar pose and style. The Zeus of the statuette sits on a throne, his powerful upper body exposed by his draped cloak. His missing hands likely once held a sceptre and thunderbolt, signifying his authority. This statuette may have served a religious purpose in a private home, though its encrusted surface suggests a long period underwater, with only the protected left side spared from damage.