ch 8 (HoGA)

Further Reading on Greek Architecture and Art

Barletta, B. A. (2001). The Origins of the Greek Architectural Orders. Cambridge/New York: Cambridge University Press.
- This work delves into the foundational elements of the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders, tracing their historical development and influences on later architectural styles.
Barringer, J. M. (2008). Art, Myth, and Ritual in Classical Greece. Cambridge/New York: Cambridge University Press.
- A comprehensive study that examines the interplay between art and the mythological narratives depicted in various works, alongside their roles in ancient Greek rituals.
Jensen, J. T., G. Hinge, P. Schultz, and B. Wickkiser, eds. (2009). Aspects of Ancient Greek Cult: Context–Ritual–Iconography. Aarhus: Aarhus University Press.
- This anthology presents multiple perspectives on the role of cult practices in ancient Greece, focusing on ritual contexts and their representations in art and architecture.
Keesling, C. M. (2003). The Votive Statues of the Athenian Acropolis. Cambridge/New York: Cambridge University Press.
- An in-depth exploration of the votive offerings on the Acropolis, highlighting their significance in relation to Athenian religious practices and societal values.
Lawrence, A. W. (1996, revised by R. A. Tomlinson). Greek Architecture, 5th ed. New Haven: Yale University Press.
- A landmark text that provides an extensive overview of architectural advancements in ancient Greece, evaluating both public and sacred buildings.
Pedley, J. (2005). Sanctuaries and the Sacred in the Ancient Greek World. Cambridge/New York: Cambridge University Press.
- Investigates the significance of sanctuaries in ancient Greek life, considering their architectural designs and the interplay between the sacred and the mundane.
Scott, M. (2010). Delphi and Olympia: The Spatial Politics of Panhellenism in the Archaic and Classical Periods. Cambridge/New York: Cambridge University Press.
- Discusses the geographic and political relationships reflected in the layouts and constructions of sacred spaces, focusing on their roles in pan-Hellenic identity.
Simon, E. (1983). Festivals of Attica: An Archaeological Commentary. Madison: University of Wisconsin Press.
- Provides an archaeological perspective on the various festivals celebrated in Attica, analyzing their cultural importance and relevance to Athenian society.
Stansbury-O’Donnell, M. D. (2006). Vase Painting, Gender, and Social Identity in Archaic Athens. Cambridge/New York: Cambridge University Press.
- Explores how vase painting reflects gender roles and social identities in ancient Athens, linking artistic depiction with societal norms and customs.

The Sixth Century (c. 625/600–480 BCE) Overview

Timeline of Significant Developments

Architecture and Architectural Sculpture
- The sixth century BCE marks a significant transition in Greek architecture, characterized by an increasing emphasis on monumental structures.
Free-Standing Sculpture
- The period saw a growing sophistication in the portrayal of the human form, notably through the evolution of kouros and kore figures.
Other Media
- Artistic expressions extended into painted pottery, showcasing advancements in technique and storytelling.

Key Characteristics

The term "archaic" denotes the period of 625-480 BCE, following a time of expansion and starting before the Classical style.
Standardization, refinement, and elaboration in art forms are observed, reflecting broader social and political changes in Greek society.

Significant Developments Included:

The Evolution of Architectural Orders
- The distinct styles of Doric and Ionic orders began to emerge, setting architectural precedents that would influence Western art.
Increasing Use of Stone
- Transition from mud-brick structures to more permanent stone buildings, particularly in temple construction.
The Siphnian Treasury at Delphi
- Served as a focal point for sixth-century chronology due to significant artistic details and intricate carvings, exemplifying the artistic trends of the time.
  - Architectural Features Included:
    - High relief sculptures in pediments that depicted mythological figures.
    - Friezes adorned with narrative scenes, showcasing the stories of gods and heroes.
    - Use of marble from Siphnos and Paros, demonstrating regional trade and resource exploitation.

Free-Standing Sculpture

Types and Styles
- Dominated by kouros (male figures) and kore (female figures).
- Kouroi represent idealized young males, often nude, from 590 BCE onwards, serving as grave markers or offerings to gods, symbolizing youth and strength.
- Korai are clothed female figures, often in elaborate garments, representing idealized youth and and can be traced back to the seventh century, often serving as votive offerings in sanctuaries.

Notable Examples

Kouros from Cape Sounion
- Showcasing rigid posture and stylized features with a clear influence from Egyptian models; also used as grave markers.
Kore Dedicated by Cheramyes
- Featuring intricate drapery and a lotus flower in her hand, showing the advanced skills of Archaic Greek sculptors.

Painted Pottery

Development of Techniques
- The transition from black-figure to red-figure techniques around 530-520 BCE, allowing for greater detail and more complex narratives.
- Notable works include the François Vase, which features extensive narrative scenes steeped in mythology, serving as significant historical artifacts.
Subject Matter
- A shift from purely ornamental designs to detailed narratives depicting daily life, mythology, and rituals in various contexts, particularly during symposia.
- Painted pottery frequently served both utilitarian and artistic purposes, reflecting cultural values and ideologies.

Conclusion

The sixth century marks a pivotal time in the evolution of Greek art, with increasing naturalism in sculpture and a growing focus on storytelling in pottery, all reflective of broader cultural, social, and political changes in ancient Greece, paving the way towards the Classical era.

Note