Ancient Greece

Lesson 8: Art and Architecture

Early Greek Art

The earliest specifically “Greek” (as opposed to Mycenaean) art that we know off comes from the Geometric period, which refers to the ninth and early eighth centuries BC.

This period is so named because the decorations used were generally of geometric patterns.

It is mainly in ceramics that we have artefacts dating from the geometric period. The decorations seen include zigzag patterns, triangles, continuous bands of meanders as well as circular patterns. Representations of horses are also very popular.

Bronze figurines are also found from this period. These figurines are all elongated with broad shoulders.

The next phase of Greek art shows strong influences from Egypt and the Near East. This period is called the Orientalizing Period. It is generally held to be during the eighth and seventh centuries BC.

In vase painting, the advent of animal decorations is characteristic of this period. The most popular animals seem to be lions, bulls, goats and birds. Monsters (sphinxes and griffins) are also frequently shown.

The sculpture of this period shows strong Eastern influences. Many female figurines that are similar to those of Near Eastern goddesses have been found.

It is mainly in the sixth century that what we usually recognise as “Greek” art first came about. This is the beginning of the period known as the Archaic which is followed in the fifth century by the Classical Period.

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