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Classical Greek Sculpture
Rating: 4.6 out of 5(81 ratings)
287 students

Classical Greek Sculpture

A Defining Moment of Ancient Art History
Created byDr. Lily Filson
Last updated 5/2018
English

What you'll learn

  • Students will learn the key developments, vocabulary terms, and works of art which are associated with Classical Greek sculpture.

Course content

3 sections7 lectures43m total length
  • From Archaic to Classical8:00

Requirements

  • Students who have completed the preceding course "The Art of Archaic Greece" will be most prepared to appreciate the broad view of how sculpture developed in ancient Greece, but this course also can stand alone and provide a solid grounding in Classical Greek sculpture.

Description

This course offers an in-depth exploration of the significant developments in Greek sculpture during the Classical Period, spanning the fifth to fourth centuries B.C.E. We will focus on pivotal techniques such as the Contrapposto stance, which revolutionized the depiction of the human form by introducing dynamic, naturalistic postures, and the "wet drapery" effect, which enhanced realism by artfully suggesting the flow and transparency of clothing. In addition to examining these groundbreaking methods, we will analyze how Classical sculptors began humanizing even the most divine figures of the Olympian pantheon, bringing them closer to earthly experience and emotion.


While highlighting essential works, this course also introduces original research that draws parallels between Classical Greek sculpture and the little-known monumental bronzes of ancient Arabia. These bronzes, though less studied, demonstrate a shared exploration of human form and materiality, offering fascinating insights into the cultural exchanges across the Mediterranean and Arabian worlds.


By the end of the course, students will not only gain a firm understanding of key vocabulary, techniques, and masterpieces but also appreciate how Classical Greek innovations influenced wider artistic traditions. The final lecture will include a comprehensive review of the terminology, ensuring students leave with a well-rounded grasp of the period’s artistic legacy.

Who this course is for:

  • High school, university, and graduate students will find both a review of key pieces and developments as well as original research and connections which are exclusive to this course.