Classical Greek sculpture refers to the sculpture from Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome and their influenced cultures from about 500 BC to around 200 AD1. It is distinguished by its naturalistic and idealized representation of the human figure, using systems of proportions, balance, and expression2. It is divided into three periods: Early, High, and Late Classical, which show a steady and rapid progression in style3. Classical Greek sculpture used materials like stone, bronze, wood, bone, and ivory, and often painted the statues4. It celebrated mankind as an independent entity and expressed movement, freedom, and realism5.

1. ANCIENT GREEK:
SCULPTURE AND
PAINTING

2. Greek Sculpture: Capturing Beauty
and Idealism

3. Kouros and Kore
- Description: Early archaic
sculptures from the 6th century BCE
representing idealized male (kouros)
and female (kore) figures.
- Characteristics: Stiff, frontal poses,
emphasizing geometric symmetry.
Reflects a transition from Egyptian
influence to Greek artistic expression.

4. Kouros and Kore

5. Classical Sculpture

6. Doryphoros:
Spear Bearer
- Doryphoros (Spear Bearer):
- Description: Created by Polykleitos in the
5th century BCE, portraying a harmonious,
athletic male figure.
- Innovation: Introduction of contrapposto,
where the weight shift creates a more
naturalistic and dynamic pose.

7. Discobolus:
Discus
Thrower
- Discobolus (Discus Thrower):
- Description: A masterpiece by Myron,
capturing a moment of intense action in an
athlete's stance.
- Significance: Exemplifies the Greeks'
appreciation for physical prowess and dynamic
movement.

8. Hellenistic Sculpture:
Laocoon and His Sons
- Description: Hellenistic
masterpiece depicting the Trojan priest
Laocoon and his sons entwined by sea
serpents.
- Characteristics: Displays
heightened emotion, dramatic
movement, and intricate detailing,
showcasing the Hellenistic emphasis on
realism.

9. Aphrodite of Knidos
- Description: Created by Praxiteles
in the 4th century BCE, it's the first
life-sized representation of a nude
female form in classical Greek art.
- Innovation: Departure from
idealized goddess portrayal,
introducing a more sensual and
humanized depiction.

10. The Winged Victory of Samothrace
- Description: A Hellenistic sculpture of
Nike, discovered on the island of Samothrace.
- Characteristics: Dynamic composition with
wings spread, conveying a sense of victory
and movement.
- Impact: Symbolizes the Hellenistic era's
focus on drama and emotion.

11. Greek Painting

12. Ceramic Painting
- Black-Figure and Red-Figure Pottery:
- Description: Common during the 6th to 4th
centuries BCE, depicting scenes of mythology and
daily life.
- Techniques: Black-figure involves black figures
on a red background, while red-figure reverses this,
allowing for greater detail.
- Example: The work of Exekias, known for his
black-figure pottery with scenes from Greek
mythology.

14. Work of Exekias

15. Mural Painting
Minoan Frescoes
- Description: Elaborate frescoes from the Minoan civilization (circa 2000–1400 BCE)
found in Knossos and other sites.
- Themes: Vibrant depictions of nature, religious rituals, and daily life, showcasing
Minoan artistic sophistication.

17. Classical Period:
- Limited Surviving Examples:
Few examples of panel
paintings have survived, but
ancient texts mention
renowned painters like
Polygnotus and Zeuxis.

18. Polygnotus

19. Zeuxis

20. Hellenistic Period:
Alexander Mosaic
- Description: A Roman copy of a
Hellenistic painting depicting the
Battle of Issus.
- Significance: Illustrates the
blending of Greek and Roman
artistic traditions during the
Hellenistic era.

21. Portraiture
- Description: Portraits in both
painting and sculpture aimed for
realistic representation, capturing
individual features and character.
- Shift Towards Realism: Reflects a
departure from idealized forms,
showcasing a desire for more accurate
depictions of individuals.