Discus
（δίσκος).1.
A circular plate or quoit of stone, iron, or bronze made for throwing to a distance as a feat of strength or skill. Of this game (δισκοβολία) it is sufficient to say that it was identical with our “putting the shot.” See Odyssey, viii. 186-200. A very celebrated representation in art is the Discobolus of the sculptor Myron, whose powerful portrayal of the initial attitude of the thrower has been praised by critics from the time of Quintilian. (Cf. Quintil. ii. 13.10.) Many of the copies of the original vary the pose so as to represent the athlete's head as not turned aside, and this is the case with the famous statue in the Vatican. The most correct reproduction is that now in possession of Prince Lancelotti, and kept in his private bed-chamber in the Palazzo Lancelotti, Rome.2.
A dish or plate. |
| Discus Thrower. (Vatican.) |