Ancient Greek art

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Ancient Greek art refers to the art produced in the Greek world from the Geometric period (c. 900 to 700 BCE) through to the end of the Hellenistic period (c. 31 BCE). This art includes a wide range of media, including sculpture, pottery, architecture, and painting.

Periods of Ancient Greek Art

Ancient Greek art is typically divided into several periods:

• Geometric period (c. 900-700 BCE): Characterized by geometric motifs in vase painting.
• Archaic period (c. 700-480 BCE): Known for the development of the kouros and kore statues.
• Classical period (c. 480-323 BCE): Marked by the creation of idealized human forms and the construction of the Parthenon.
• Hellenistic period (c. 323-31 BCE): Noted for its dramatic expressions and intricate details.

Sculpture

Sculpture was a significant form of art in Ancient Greece. Early Greek sculptures were heavily influenced by Egyptian art, but over time, Greek sculptors developed their own style. The Classical period saw the creation of some of the most famous sculptures, such as the Discobolus and the Venus de Milo.

Pottery

Pottery was another important art form in Ancient Greece. Greek pottery is known for its distinctive shapes and painted decorations. The Geometric period featured pottery with linear designs, while the Archaic period introduced more naturalistic figures. The Classical period saw the development of the red-figure technique, which allowed for more detailed and realistic depictions.

Architecture

Architecture in Ancient Greece is renowned for its temples, theaters, and public buildings. The most famous example is the Parthenon on the Acropolis of Athens. Greek architecture is characterized by its use of the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders.

Painting

Although few examples of Ancient Greek painting survive, it is known that painting was a highly respected art form. Greek painters worked on wooden panels, walls, and pottery. The Classical period saw the development of techniques such as foreshortening and chiaroscuro.

Related Pages

• Ancient Greece
• Greek mythology
• Classical antiquity
• Western art history
• Hellenistic civilization