“The gnarled Swiss” is one of the common expressions for the alleged physical traits of the founders of the Confederation. This article analyzes the many meanings of the Swiss “gnarled body” that have not yet been highlighted from a point of view of its representations in 19th century and early 20th century Swiss painting. Beginning by establishing the origins of the archetype of the Swiss gnarled arm, it evaluates the implications, both in Swiss sports practice and the representations of the body in Swiss art. It fully inscribes the theme in a political perspective. The Athenian reference in which is illustrated the figure of the virile athlete able to defend the fatherland is underlying. In the same way, the ideal of the new body refers to the political allegory of a strong Confederation in the face of the hegemonic threats of neighboring states.