Ancient Greek Art (c. 800 BCE – 100 CE)

Ancient Greek Art (c. 800 BCE – 100 CE)

Definition & Background:
Ancient Greek art is known for its balance, harmony, and pursuit of ideal beauty. It evolved from geometric and archaic styles into the classical and Hellenistic periods, influencing Western art for centuries. Greek artists mastered sculpture, pottery, frescoes, and architecture, emphasizing naturalism, anatomy, and movement. Art served religious, political, and commemorative purposes, often depicting gods, athletes, and historical figures.

Five Key Ancient Greek Artists / Artworks:

  1. Phidias (c. 490–430 BCE)

    • Bio: One of the greatest sculptors of ancient Greece, Phidias was responsible for overseeing the construction of the Parthenon and sculpting some of its most iconic works.
    • Notable Works:
      • Statue of Zeus at Olympia – One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
      • Athena Parthenos – A massive gold and ivory statue of the goddess Athena in the Parthenon.

  2. Polykleitos (c. 450–410 BCE)

    • Bio: A sculptor who developed The Canon, a set of mathematical proportions for the human body, emphasizing symmetry and balance.
    • Notable Works:
      • Doryphoros (Spear Bearer) – A perfectly proportioned male athlete.
      • Diadumenos – A sculpture of a youth tying a victory ribbon around his head.

  3. Praxiteles (c. 370–330 BCE)

    • Bio: Known for introducing more fluid, naturalistic poses and the first full-scale nude female sculptures in Greek art.
    • Notable Works:
      • Aphrodite of Knidos – The first major nude female statue, revolutionary for its time.
      • Hermes and the Infant Dionysus – A sculpture showcasing soft, realistic drapery.

  4. Lysippos (c. 390–300 BCE)

    • Bio: Alexander the Great’s personal sculptor, Lysippos introduced a new canon of proportions with a smaller head and a more dynamic posture.
    • Notable Works:
      • Apoxyomenos (The Scraper) – Depicts an athlete cleaning himself with a strigil.
      • Statue of Alexander the Great – One of the most famous depictions of the ruler.

  5. Exekias (c. 545–530 BCE)

    • Bio: A master of black-figure pottery, Exekias was both a painter and potter, known for detailed narrative scenes.
    • Notable Works:
      • Dionysus in a Boat – A famous kylix (drinking cup) featuring the god of wine.
      • Achilles and Ajax Playing a Game – A highly detailed amphora showing two warriors at rest.
Back to blog