The statue of Laocoön and His Sons is a famous ancient Greek sculpture depicting the Trojan priest Laocoön, his two sons, and a sea serpent. It’s one of the most renowned ancient sculptures and is housed in the Vatican Museums in Vatican City.

The statue was discovered in Rome in 1506 and was immediately recognized for its artistic merit. It is believed to have been created in the late 2nd century BC, during the Hellenistic period.

The statue represents the moment when Laocoön, his sons, and a sea serpent are attacked by the goddess Athena. Despite their efforts to escape, they are entwined by the serpent, symbolizing the wrath of the gods and the fate of those who defy them.

Laocoön’s pose, with his arms extended and his face contorted in pain, is one of the most dramatic in ancient sculpture. His sons are depicted in a similar state of agony, adding to the overall sense of tragedy.

The statue is made of marble and stands approximately 6.4 feet (1.9 meters) tall. It is one of the most famous and influential works of ancient Greek art.