Etruscan Art

Protoarchaic

Orientalizing influences from the Eastern Mediterranean

Archaic

Greek influence, naturalistic human forms

Classical

Continued development under Roman influence

Akroteria

Sculptural ornaments placed on the roof corners or ridge of temples

Dromos

A passageway leading into a tomb, often lined with stone

Corbel Vaulting

A technique where stones are stacked in overlapping layers to create an arched ceiling

Lebes

A deep, round vessel used in banquets, often with decorative protomes

Protome

A decorative element shaped like the head or upper torso of a human or animal

Fibula

A decorative brooch used to fasten garments, often elaborately crafted

Repoussé

A metalworking technique where a design is hammered into relief from the reverse side

Granulation

A technique using tiny metal beads fused to a surface for decoration

Filigree

Delicate metalwork made with fine wires, often gold or silver

Bucchero

A black, glossy ceramic typical of Etruscan pottery

Abecedarium

An inscription listing the letters of an alphabet, used for teaching or ritual.

Sarcophagus

A stone coffin, often decorated with reliefs or sculpture

Burnish

A technique of polishing pottery before firing to create a smooth, shiny surface.

Lost-wax Casting

A method of bronze casting where a wax model is replaced by molten metal in a mold.

Chimera of Arezzo

composite ancient animal, lion's head and body, goat's neck springing from spine, snake for a tail, ETRUSCAN