Classical Period Greek Art & Review

Greek Art and Sculpture

Kouroi Statues

• Definition: Life-size marble statues of nude males, typically in a forward-striding pose.

• Function: Primarily used as grave markers or representations of gods in sanctuaries.

• Features:

  • Carved on all four sides for 360-degree viewing.

  • Maintained the general shape of the marble block, highlighting craftsmanship.

  • Possessed an "archaic smile" indicating a living presence; absence indicated the deceased.

Examples of Kouroi Statues

• New York Kourus (600 BCE)

  • Tall marble statue over 6 ft. used as a grave marker in Attica.

  • Exhibits traits of the Daedalic style with a triangular head and long hair backdrop.

• Calf Bearer (Rhonbos) (560 BCE)

  • Marble, dedicated in the Athena Acropolis.

  • Depicts a man in a cloak, using an archaic smile, suggesting he is alive.

Classical Sculpture

• Dying Warrior (480 BCE)

  • Found in East and West pediment of the Temple of Aphaia, represents heroic ideals.

• Peplos Kore (530 BCE)

  • Represents a goddess, dressed in layered garments with a damaged limb indicating that she once held an object to signify divinity.

Greek Architecture

• Early Structures

  • Initially made of mud and wood, early temples do not survive.

  • Transitioned to marble and limestone for permanence during the Archaic Period.

• Canonical Greek Temple Design

  • Temples featured an altar outside and a cult statue inside, designed for offerings.

  • Most temples were elevated on hills.

Orders of Greek Architecture

Doric Order

• Originated in mainland Greece, characterized by simplicity and sturdiness.

• Features flat capitals and minimal decoration.

Ionic Order

• Developed in the Aegean, known for elegance and decorative complexity.

• Features spiraled capitals and more elaborative ornamentation.

Classical Period in Greek Art (480-450 BCE)

• Marked by a shift from block-style figures to more dynamic poses, introducing contrapposto.

• Focus on movement and realistic proportions while still idealizing the male form.

• Major works from this period include the Parthenon and the Kritios Boy, which exemplifies the transition to naturalism.

The Parthenon

• Construction: Transitioned from a temple to a Christian church and later a mosque, highlighting layers of cultural significance.

• Friezes and Metopes: Depicted significant myths involving Athena; the Parthenon symbolizes Athenian identity and civic pride.

Notable Sculptures

• Doryphoros (Spear Bearer) by Polykleitos (450-440 BCE)

  • Renowned for its representation of balanced proportions and dynamic posture.

  • Key example of classical idealism and influence on later Roman copies.

Etruscan Culture (900-27 BCE)

• Influences: Merged local traditions with Greek and Near Eastern elements.

• Art: Strong focus on funerary practices, featuring terracotta sarcophagi and bronze works with intricate designs.

Etruscan Art Notables

• Capitoline Wolf (500-480 BCE)

  • Iconic statue representing the founding myth of Rome.

• Chimera of Arezzo (400 BCE)

  • Demonstrates nuanced Etruscan bronze work, blending realism with myth.

Final Notes

• Art serves as a historical document reflecting cultural values, social structures, and religious beliefs.

• The Etruscans show a distinct blend of local traditions with wider influences, establishing a foundation for Roman artistic developments.