Early Classical Period Art and Architecture

Study Notes

Early Classical Period (c. 480-450 BCE)

Characterized by 5th/6th century votives originating from notable sites such as the Athenian Acropolis and Delphi.
Key locations include the Temple of Apollo and the Siphnian Treasury in Delphi, as well as the Temple of Hera and Temple of Zeus in Olympia.

Notable Artworks and Sculptures

Kritios Boy: Significant representation from 490 BCE showcasing the evolution of Greek sculpture.
Moschophoros (Calfbearer): Created in 560 BCE, exemplifies early attempts in depicting human anatomy and expression.
Rampin Rider: Dating around 550 BCE, potentially represents one of Peisistratos' sons, indicative of political patronage.
Euenor and Angelitos Athena: Showcases votive practices from 470 BCE.
Mourning Athena: Another important piece from 470 BCE that highlights themes of loss and devotion.

Architectural Structures

Temple of Apollo: 2nd century structure renowned for its complex, which includes a theatre and a stadium, affirming its cultural significance.
Temple of Hera: Early Classical structure built in the 6th century, forming part of the sacred site in Olympia.
Temple of Zeus: East facade construction dated 468-457 BCE, renowned for its elaborate metopes depicting mythological narratives.

Siphnian Treasury

Caryatid: 525 BCE figure serving as a column in the Siphnian Treasury, displaying Ionian style influences.
East Pediment and Frieze: Includes intricate details and narratives from 525 BCE, embodying archaic elements while transitioning to the Classical style.

Votive Offerings at Delphi

Delphi Votives: Spanning various periods, from geometric (750 BCE) to archaic (580 BCE), illustrating the evolution of artistic styles.
Statues and Symbolism: Includes representations such as Cleobis and Biton (580 BCE), and the Naxian Sphinx (580 BCE), which serve as religious dedications.

Themes and Motifs in Sculpture

Herakles Metopes on Temple of Zeus: Illustrate famous labors, such as his encounters with the Nemean Lion and Stymphalian Birds, emphasizing heroism.
Zeus and Ganymede: A significant votive dedicated to the divine connection and beauty, created around 470 BCE.

Other Notable Figures

Charioteer: Bronze sculpture from 478 BCE, significant for its realism and dedication by Polyzalos of Gela.
Riace Warriors: Two bronze statuettes from 470 BCE showcasing advanced techniques in metalworking and anatomical proportions.

Late Classical Contributions

Polykleitos's Doryphoros (Spear Bearer): High Classical sculpture created in 440 BCE emphasizing idealized male form.
Praxiteles's Hermes and Baby Dionysos: Late Classical work from 340 BCE, displaying relaxed poses and humanistic features.

Significance of the Period

The Early Classical Period marks a transition in Greek art from the rigid forms and stylistic conventions of the Archaic period towards more naturalistic and human-centered representations, setting the stage for future artistic developments in the High Classical era.

Description

Explore the notable artworks and architectural wonders of the Early Classical Period, ranging from 480 to 450 BCE. This quiz covers significant sculptures like the Kritios Boy and the Moschophoros, as well as key structures such as the Temple of Apollo in Delphi. Test your knowledge of this transformative era in Greek history.