Home > Arts > Artists > H > Maerten van Heemskerck
Colossus of Rhodes statue
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Colossus of Rhodes statue
Colossus of Rhodes. Historical artwork showing the vast bronze statue of the Greek sun god Helios (later identified with Apollo, the god of light), at the entrance of the harbour at Rhodes, a Greek island in the Aegean Sea. The statue, standing 33 metres tall, was completed in 282 BC and stood for only 56 years before being destroyed in an earthquake. Even the broken remains were so impressive that people travelled from afar to see them. They remained in Rhodes for around 800 years until the Saracens invaded and sold them, supposedly transporting them to Alexandria on the backs of 900 camels. This engraving is from Maerten van Heemskercks 16th century book Seven Wonders of the World, and reproduced in The Picture Magazine, 1894
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6438779
© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1500s 16th Century 1894 Ancient Greece Antiquity Apollo Architecture Brass Bronze Building Technology Classical Deity Greece Harbour Mythology Port Rhodes Statue Aegean Colossus Of Rhodes Greek God Helios Seven Wonders Of The World Sun God The Picture Magazine
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> H
> Maerten van Heemskerck
> Arts
> Literature
> Magazines
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the awe-inspiring Colossus of Rhodes, a monumental bronze statue that once stood proudly at the entrance of the harbour in Rhodes, Greece. Depicting Helios, the Greek sun god associated with light and later identified as Apollo, this historical artwork is a testament to ancient Greek mythology and classical artistry. Standing an impressive 33 meters tall, the Colossus was completed in 282 BC but tragically endured only 56 years before succumbing to an earthquake. Despite its destruction, even its broken remains left spectators astounded. People from far and wide made pilgrimages to witness this marvel firsthand. For nearly eight centuries, these remnants remained on Rhodes until they were sold by invading Saracens. Legend has it that they were transported to Alexandria atop the backs of an astonishing 900 camels. The engraving featured in this print originates from Maerten van Heemskerck's renowned book "Seven Wonders of the World" published during the 16th century. The image captures not only the grandeur of this ancient wonder but also serves as a reminder of human ingenuity and architectural prowess prevalent during antiquity. It stands as a symbol of both Greek history and European heritage while offering us a glimpse into one of mankind's most remarkable achievements - truly deserving its place among wonders of the ancient world.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
