Since its 16th century excavation,Laocoon and His Sonshas attracted archaeologists and art lovers alike.

Here, we unearth the history of this sculpture and look closely at its awe-inspiring craftsmanship.

What isLaocoon and His Sons?

Laocoon and His Sons Laocoon Statue Laocoon Sculpture

“Laocoon and His Sons” displayed in the Museo Pio Clementino of the Vatican Museums in Rome, Italy (Photo:IR StoneviaShutterstock)

In true Hellenistic fashion,Laocoon and His Sonsshowcases an interest in the realistic depiction of movement.

One beaten, one suffering, and one perhaps escaping.

Laocoon and His Sons Laocoon Statue Laocoon Sculpture

Marco Dente, “Laocoön and his sons being attacked by serpents” (Photo:The Metropolitan Museum of ArtPublic Domain)

Laocoon and His Sons Laocoon Statue Laocoon Sculpture

Fresco, 1st century (Photo:Marie-Lan NguyenviaWiki ArtPublic Domain)

Laocoon and His Sons Laocoon Statue Laocoon Sculpture

Pliny the Elder, “Natural History” (Photo:Wikimedia CommonsPublic Domain)

Laocoon and His Sons