Ancient Art Quiz: Paleolithic to Egyptian Art

Ancient Art

• Paleolithic era spanned 2.5-3 million years, marked by development of tools and weapons by Homo sapiens, leading to an increase in human culture.

Egyptian Art

• Timeframe from 31st century BC to 4th century AD, recognized as a significant site for civilization and advanced artworks.
• Artworks carved in stone and wood depicted celestial bodies and sacred animals, often incorporated into tombs to aid the deceased's soul.

Hellenistic Art

• Emerged during the 4th century to 1st BC, notably during Alexander the Great's conquests.
• Conquered territories were divided among generals, leading to smaller Greek kingdoms and significant cultural evolution.

Medieval Art

• Covered the period from the fall of the Roman Empire to the Renaissance.
• Evolved to include biblical subjects, Christian doctrine, and classical mythology, leading to distinct periods like Romanesque, Gothic, and Byzantine.

Renaissance

• A period of rebirth characterized by humanism, focusing on the inherent dignity and worth of individuals.
• Spread of humanities such as philosophy, history, Latin, and Greek, with art emphasizing simplicity, gesture, and expression.

Baroque Period

• Flourished in the 17th century with ornate and sensual decorations.
• Artists utilized light and shadow for dramatic effects, employing diagonal lines and twists in compositions; characterized by elaborate sculptural ornamentation.

Post-Modern Art

• Timeframe from 1950 to mid-1980, aimed at public engagement through simplicity and vibrancy.
• Sculptures depicted realistic human anatomy, reflecting themes of calmness and eclecticism of the period.

Contemporary Period

• Encompasses the 20th century to present; known for its diverse and challenging nature.
• Combines various materials and techniques, often questioning traditional norms and lacking standardized principles, while exploring contemporary ideas and problems.