What ancient Greek sculptures actually looked like

Nothing in our world is eternal. The same applies to unique works of art and architectural masterpieces, which lose their original appearance and beauty over the centuries. We all know from childhood what Greek and Roman statues look like, we are used to seeing their faded color of stone. However, a recent study by Vincenz Brinkman and other archaeologists proved that they initially looked different. 

With the help of infrared and ultraviolet radiation, experts were able to detect traces of paint on ancient sculptures and recreate the original appearance of ancient statues. The study showed that lifeless and monotonous sculptures once shone with bright colors that have been erased after many centuries. 

Vinzenz Brinkman created copies of some works of ancient art and painted them in the colors that once covered the originals. Today, these statues are exhibits of an exhibition that travels to museums around the world.

The head of a warrior from the temple of Aphaia.

The Roman Emperor Caligula.

The bark in the peplos from the Museum of the Acropolis of Athens.

Torso from the Acropolis.

The Trojan archer from the Temple of Aphaia.

Lion statue from Loutraki.

Statue of Octavian Augustus, Roman Emperor and great-nephew of Gaius Julius Caesar.