The art of Ancient Greece played an essential role in the development of the culture and art of humankind. It was determined by Greece’s social and historical development, which was profoundly different from the development of the countries and peoples of the Ancient East. In Greece, despite the existence of slavery, the free labor of artisans played a considerable role – until the development of slavery had its destructive effect on it. In Greece, the first principles of democracy in history were formed within the framework of a slave-owning society, making it possible to develop bold and profound ideas that affirmed the beauty and significance of man.
The art of Ancient Greece is a journey into the world of man, his harmonious beauty – external and internal. Ancient Greek art is the perfection of forms, the precision of lines, and content spirituality. It is a synthesis of arts: a combination of architecture and painting, sculpture and architecture, painting and sculpture. Ancient Greek artists felt a great need to express their feelings through art. As a result, magnificent vessels, associated vase paintings, beautiful statues, majestic temples, and incomparable literature were born. The ancient creators gave the world new aesthetics, culture, literature, and art.
The marble head of Athena, an ancient Greek sculpture, made the most remarkable impression on me this semester. An unknown author created this sculpture at the end of the third or second century BC (Marble head of Athena). The head is made in full size and was part of a statue that probably depicted a goddess walking forward. It is impossible not to note the many details in the sculpture: ears pierced for metal earrings and a helmet made of marble or bronze, which the goddess initially wore (Marble head of Athena). The goddess’s face is marked by strong emotion, and the head itself is in motion, so it seems that the wind is about to start moving her hair. This living force, passion, and beauty, combined with the fascinating image of Athens as a whole, attracted me to this sculpture.
In addition, it is interesting that this statue was probably not inside the temple but stood in an open space, symbolizing the role of Athena as a wise defender. As mentioned above, the statue’s composition is dynamic, which makes it easy to feel the strength and determination that the author of the sculpture has invested in their creation (Marble head of Athena). The sculpture of Athena intrigues her with its belligerence and, at the same time, feminine softness and beauty, which radiate from her eyes. The author managed to put mystery in her look and some unasked question on her half-open lips. I believe the meaning of this sculpture lies in the author’s admiration, which they felt concerning the great goddess-protector, praising not only her mind but also her beauty.
Thus, the sculpture of the marble head of Athena draws attention to the sculptor’s view of the goddess, which he depicted with great skill. The slight turn of Athena’s head gives her a mysterious and unsolved mystery, while her look seems resolute and firm, creating a fantastic contrast. The image of the goddess-protector and warrior is deep and attractive for me, as it combines several important roles and hypostases. Living emotions are frozen in stone, causing awe and admiration for the master whose hand created this masterpiece of ancient art.
Reference
Marble head of Athena. The Met. (n.d.). Web.