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A History of Greek Art - Introduction

Author: Mark D. Stansbury-O'DonnellPublished: 2015 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Introduction and Issues in the History of Greek Art

Historical Context

The first comprehensive histories of Greek art began to emerge during the Hellenistic period, spanning approximately the 3rd to 1st centuries BCE. This era followed the conquests of Alexander the Great, a time when Greek art and culture began to spread across the Mediterranean, profoundly influencing Roman art and subsequent artistic traditions. The cultural exchange facilitated by trade and conquest led to the incorporation of various artistic elements from the East, resulting in a dynamic evolution of style and technique.

Literary Sources

Cicero, a prominent Roman statesman and orator, wrote the earliest extant account of Greek art around 46 BCE in his work "Brutus." In this text, Cicero critiques the evolution of artistic styles, noting a transition from rigid, formulaic forms to more lifelike and natural representations. His observations provide crucial insights into how art reflected the changing societal values and aesthetic preferences of his time.

Key Artists Identified by Cicero

• Kanachos: Known for his statues that exhibited rigid postures, Kanachos established foundational techniques that emphasized stability.

• Kalamis: His work represented a softer approach than Kanachos, pioneering a gradual shift towards greater realism while still not fully capturing lifelike qualities.

• Myron: Renowned for producing beautiful yet idealized representations, Myron's works, such as the Discobolus (Discus Thrower), were praised for their elegance without achieving complete lifelikeness.

• Polykleitos: Considered a master of realism, Polykleitos's sculptures, including the famous Doryphoros (Spear Bearer), epitomized the ideal proportions of the human body through a precise canon of proportions, marking a significant milestone in Greek art.

Development of Artistic Styles

Greek art experienced systematic development in both sculpture and painting, evolving from simplistic and geometric forms to increasingly intricate and naturalistic styles.

• Painting: Initially confined to basic four-color techniques, Greek painting advanced significantly, ultimately embracing a fuller palette employed by renowned artists like Apelles, whose works were noted for their vibrancy and depth.

Cicero's Principles of Art

Cicero articulated two foundational principles that define the essence of art:

1. Reality: Art must engage with authentic portrayals of the human form, challenging artists to depict the natural world accurately.

2. Beauty: In addition to realism, art should strive to exhibit aesthetic value, prompting a balance between the accurate representation and visual appeal.

Comparative Analysis

The Parthenon frieze serves as an exemplary case study for understanding the evolution towards lifelike representation, showcasing an intricate interplay of narrative and form, with figures that exhibit dynamic movement and realism that were unprecedented at the time.

Contextual Approach to Greek Art History

Art historians today emphasize the social, cultural, and contextual significance of art objects. This approach moves beyond merely cataloging masterpieces to examining how art serves various functions in society, providing a richer understanding of its impact.

Wider Definition of Art

Modern interpretations of Greek art encompass a broader definition that includes decorative arts, metalwork, pottery, and even everyday objects, emphasizing the role of craft and technê—a Greek term denoting art and craftsmanship.

Key Periods of Greek Art Evolution

• Geometric Period: (c. 900–700 BCE) characterized by simple geometric shapes and patterns, often found in vase painting and sculpture.

• Archaic Period: (c. 720–480 BCE) characterized by the emergence of narrative art and an increasing sophistication compared to earlier Egyptian styles, notable developments include the use of the kouros and koré figures.

• Classical Period: (c. 480–330 BCE) exemplified by a consistently high level of lifelike representation, with artists achieving an unprecedented understanding of human anatomy and movement.

• Hellenistic Period: Marked by a movement towards more expressive and diverse styles, embracing emotional depth and complex compositions.

New Considerations in Evaluating Greek Art

Alternative Histories

Scholars increasingly focus on smaller works and their social functions, which provide unique insights that transcend the grand narratives often centered around monumental masterpieces. Smaller artifacts often depict daily life and cultural practices, highlighting community values and beliefs.

Cultural Functions

Art served multifaceted purposes—religious, social, and individual—transcending mere aesthetic enjoyment. For instance, terracotta figures often played roles in domestic rituals, illustrating the intersection of art with the cultural fabric of societal practices.

Case Studies of Terracotta Figures

• Hera-type Terracotta: An example of modest abstraction from circa 750–725 BCE, used in various ritual contexts.

• Kamiros Figure: This notable piece showcased remarkably lifelike qualities and revealed insights into societal roles, particularly in funerary contexts, indicating the importance of such figures in commemorating the deceased.

Questions for Further Exploration

1. What role does provenance play in the study of artifacts, especially concerning the economic and cultural implications of art?

2. How does the artistic purpose interact with viewer perception in the context of the original display settings, such as sanctuaries or graves?

Conclusion

The study of Greek art represents a complex interplay of historical narrative, artistic evolution, and cultural significance. This multifaceted exploration offers rich potential for understanding ancient societies, revealing how artistic expression served to communicate values, beliefs, and the human experience across time.