Johann Winckelmann

Johann Joachim Winckelmann (December 9, 1717, Stendal - June 8, 1768, Trieste) was a German archaeologist and art historian. His most famous quote

noble simplicity and calm greatness

(Edle Einfalt, Stille Größe) describes his impression of the great works of the ancient masters. His writings influenced Western sculpture and painting, and stirred an interest for the classical art, especially that of ancient Greece.