Unknown artist, Etruscan

Most likely an athlete, this statuette of a young man (kouros) presumably held a javelin or staff in his left hand. This figure may have served as a votive offering. The Etruscans dedicated small figurines like this one in sanctuaries sacred to the gods. Such an offering would remain in the sanctuary, increasing the import both of the mortal person who placed it there, and of the deity to whom it was dedicated. This victorious young athlete, exhibiting graceful movement and a muscular physique, would have served as a fitting gift to an Etruscan god.