ch 10 (HoGA)

Key Themes in Greek Art of the Fifth Century (c. 480–400 BCE)

Overview of Developments

• The fifth century BCE is marked by significant transformations in Greek art, particularly in architecture, sculpture, and painting. This period witnesses the transition from the Archaic to the Classical style, which emphasizes increased naturalism, emotional expression, and the idealization of human forms. Artists began to prioritize the accurate representation of the human body, moving towards a more lifelike portrayal.

Timeline of Notable Events and Works (c. 480–400 BCE)

• 480–450 BCE:

  • Temple of Aphaia at Aigina constructed, showcasing early expressions of the newly developed Classical style.

  • Temple of Zeus at Olympia (470–457 BCE) completed, known for its grandeur and intricate sculptures, particularly glorifying the god Zeus.

  • The Kritios Boy created around 480 BCE, representing a pivotal shift towards naturalism with its contrapposto pose, indicating movement and balance.

  • Statues of the Tyrranicides crafted around 477/6 BCE celebrate the theme of liberty and civic virtue.

• 450–430 BCE:

  • The construction of the Parthenon (447–432 BCE) underscores the cultural and political power of Athens and is widely regarded as a pinnacle of Classical architecture.

  • Propylaia (437–432 BCE), the monumental gateway to the Acropolis, exemplifies innovative architectural design and aesthetics.

  • The development of the Doryphoros by Polykleitos emphasizes ideal proportions and symmetry in human figures, becoming a standard for subsequent artistic representations.

• 430–400 BCE:

  • Erechtheion built (431–404 BCE), a temple known for its complex structure and significant symbolic functions, particularly centering on Athena and the city’s patron deities.

  • The Nike Temple (430–420 BCE) introduces notable sculptures, including the famous Nike of Samothrace, that depict victory and celebrate Athenian accomplishments.

Developments in Sculpture

• Transition from Archaic to Classical

  • The Kritios Boy (c. 480 BCE) is often cited as the first example of severe style in sculpture, indicative of the shift towards more life-like representations as seen in the naturalistic depiction of its human form.

  • Facial expressions evolved from the smiling rigidity of earlier kouros figures to more nuanced and neutral expressions that convey emotional depth, enhancing viewer connection to the subject.

• Severe Style

  • This style emphasizes a balance between naturalism and idealized forms, presenting figures with more organic shapes, including softer transitions in the representation of muscle and flesh, as opposed to the more angular forms of earlier works.

• Mimesis

  • This concept refers to the imitation of nature in art that evokes emotional responses from viewers. Artworks such as the Tyrannicides not only depict human figures but also convey strong narratives and themes of civic virtue, engaging the audience in profound dialogues.

Architectural Innovations

• Parthenon (447–432 BCE):

  • Designed by architects Iktinos and Kallikrates, the Parthenon employs optical refinements, including slight curvature of columns and stylobate, which rectify visual distortions and enhance the building's grandeur.

  • The use of metopes and friezes features allegorical scenes representing Athenian values, gods, and myths, reinforcing Athens' cultural and political identity.

• Temple of Zeus at Olympia:

  • Renowned for its elaborate sculptural decoration, including a narrative series of metopes that depict heroic labors of Herakles, the Temple played a significant role in the Olympic Games, celebrating athletic prowess and divine favor.

Developments in Painting

• Advances in Techniques

  • The introduction of skiagraphia (the technique of shading to create the illusion of volume) and skenographia (the use of perspective to depict space) allowed painters to create more dynamic and three-dimensional compositions.

  • Wall paintings gained prominence in public buildings, with works like the Tomb of the Diver illustrating lively symposium scenes that reflect the social customs and elite culture of the time.

• Key Works

  • Paintings by artists such as Polygnotos and Mikon are noted for their emotional depth, dynamic compositions, and representation of character ethos; these works mark milestones in the evolution of Greek painting, highlighting its narrative potential and engagement with viewers.

Cultural Significance

• The artistic achievements of the fifth century reflect the broader socio-political climate, particularly the rise of Athenian democracy and its ideological underpinnings. The art of this period was not just aesthetic but served as a means of expressing civic pride and collective identity.

• Perikles' leadership is integral to this artistic renaissance, as his administration undertook monumental projects on the Acropolis, facilitating the flourishing of arts and culture and enhancing Athenian dominance and identity.

The Parthenon Marbles and Cultural Context

• The moral implications surrounding cultural heritage and the issue of repatriation are exemplified by the history of the Parthenon Marbles, which were originally removed by Lord Elgin in the early 19th century.

• The ongoing debates regarding cultural patrimony raise questions about the responsibilities of museums to respect and repatriate ancient artifacts and their legacies to the cultures they belong to, contributing to discussions around cultural ownership and heritage preservation.

References for Further Study

• For deeper insights into fifth-century Greek art and its continuing impact on Western culture, scholars and students are encouraged to reference key texts and resources, including compilations of archaeological studies, critical analyses of artistic techniques, and investigations into the socio-political context of ancient Greece.