Sculptures

Greek art, characterized by its emphasis on realism, idealism and a celebration of the human form, has had a profound impact on European artistic traditions. The sculptural achievements of ancient Greek artists, including Phidias and Praxiteles, set the standard for portraying the human body with grace and anatomical precision.

During the Renaissance, European artists such as Michelangelo and Raphael drew inspiration from Greek sculptures and pottery, infusing their works with classical themes and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of the human figure. The enduring influence of Greek art can be observed in countless paintings, sculptures and decorative arts across European museums and galleries. Michelangelo’s “David” is a prime example of the influence of ancient Greek art on Renaissance art. The sculpture depicts the biblical hero David, represented with idealized proportions and a muscular physique. The statue demonstrates an attention to detail that is reminiscent of ancient Greek art, particularly in its emphasis on the human form. Michelangelo’s “David” perfectly embodies the ideals of humanism, as it celebrates the human potential for strength, courage, and beauty.

David, marble sculpture by Michelangelo, 1501–04, in the Accademia, Florence. 5.5 metres high.Souce: JÖRG BITTNER UNNA/WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Greek mythology has permeated European art, providing a vast repository of inspiration. From Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” to Rubens’ “Prometheus Bound”, artists have drawn upon Greek myths to convey timeless stories and explore the human condition. These mythological motifs continue to captivate and resonate in contemporary European art. The idealized human form and naturalistic sculptures of ancient Greece, exemplified by works like the “Doryphoros” (Spear Bearer) by Polykleitos, also influenced the Renaissance and subsequent European art movements.

Τhe ancient Greeks personified the divine. The rest of the civilizations before the Ancient Greek, regarded the gods as something not at all like man, something terrifying, which should people be afraid. A typical example is the Egyptian gods who had the form of animal head, like the god Ra who had a falcon’s head. In contrast, then, to these cultures, the ancient Greeks pretended and presented the gods to resemble humans, with passions and weaknesses even, like them. The ancient Greeks depicted all this through art, especially architecture and sculpture.

A typical example is the Parthenon, which is a symbol of democracy. The above part of it (i.e. the roof, symbolizing the city) cannot stand without being supported by all the columns (which symbolize the citizens) which are all the same height. This symbolizes that all the citizens are equal and that everyone is responsible for the support and fate of the city. For this reason, UNESCO has the Parthenon as its symbol. In addition, the ancient Greeks depicted their gods with statues, so that everyone could see them.

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