Greek Sculptures In Greek Art

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The male form in Greek sculpture has significantly changed over time. The proportions, depiction of motion, and conception of the figure in space dramatically differ from period to period. The development of the art work over time shows that the sculptures went from being depicted as stiff and awkwardly positioned to beautifully balanced. The periods in which the male sculpture changed throughout include; the Archaic period, the Early and High Classical periods, the Late Classical period, and the Hellenistic period. The beginning of realistic depictions of humans in Greek art began in the Archaic period (700-480 BC). Active sculptors in this period were influenced by the Egyptians. However the fact that the Greek sculptures were represented in the nude was a major difference between the two. Male sculptures created during this period showed no emphasis on bone and muscle anatomy. This was clearly evident by the lack of details around the joints in the knees and arms. Another major characteristic of early Greek sculpture was the lack of natural stance of movement in the figure. A perfect example of a piece of art from the Archaic period is the Kouros, ca. 600 BC. The Kouros is one of the earliest life-size statuary in the history of Greek Art. Unlike more modern and accurate sculptures the Kourous’s slim waste and pointed arch of its rib cage creates a V shaped ridge of the hips. This form does not depict the budging flesh associated with muscle of the human body. Like many other early…show more content…
Gardner's Art Throughout the Ages. 13th ed. Vol. 1. Wadsworth Ceneage Learning. Print * Green, Sharon. "The Evolution of Greek Sculpture From 600 BCE - 150 BCE." Easin Articles. 11 Nov. 2008. Web. 23 Oct. 2011. * Essak, Shelley. "Art History 101 - Greek Art (An Overview)." Art History Resources for Students, Enthusiasts, Artists and Educators - Artist Biographies - Art Timelines - Images and Picture Galleries. Web. 23 Oct. 2011.

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