What artistic period does the Metropolitan Kouros belong to?

The Metropolitan Kouros is representative of the Archaic period in Greek art, which spans from around 800 to 480 BCE. This period is characterized by the emergence of more naturalistic forms and the development of the human figure in sculpture. The Kouros statues, including the one in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, depict youthful male figures standing in a rigidly frontal pose, which reflects the influence of ancient Egyptian art but also signifies a shift towards individuality and lifelike representation.

During the Archaic period, artists were experimenting with proportion, anatomy, and the rendering of movement. The Kouros reflects these innovations, showcasing the idealized male form and a focus on athleticism and beauty that would influence later artistic developments in the Classical period. Additionally, features such as the stylized hair and the emphasis on symmetry are hallmarks of the Archaic style, making it a definitive example of this artistic era.