![Jacques-Louis David - Leonidas at Thermopylae [1814] by Gandalf's Gallery](http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5477/9628558482_8420c135dc.jpg)
Leonidas, the central figure, sits on a rock facing out at the viewer, contemplating his and his soldiers' fate. The plume on his helmet is befitting a king, and reaches down his back. His upwards stare is a final glance to the gods, the temple above his head is a symbol of that, as well as an indication of what they are fighting for. He has a beard but no moustache, a Spartan tradition. In his hands he holds a spear, sword and shield, everything a Spartan warrior needs for battle. The rock he sits on is like a makeshift throne, his right foot on the ground signals the beginning of the battle. He is moving off the throne onto the ground looking similar to a demi-god descending from heaven to join into the battle.
[Louvre Museum, Paris - Oil on canvas, 395 x 531 cm]