Etruscan Civilization and Art

Etruscan civilization flourished between 800 BCE and 500 BCE, influenced by Greek culture, particularly in language and art.
Notable for a decentralized structure of city-states with a unified cultural identity and significant public roles for women.
Focused on the afterlife contrasted with Roman priorities.

Apulu (500 BCE) is a terracotta statue from a temple roof, depicting a vibrant, animated figure distinct from Greek styles with lively expressions and dynamic poses.
Sarcophagi from Cerveteri (520 BCE) feature a reclining couple, highlighting the centrality of women and unique cultural practices such as banqueting, not seen in Greek customs.
Banditaccia Necropolis (7th-2nd BCE) serves as a large burial site, imitating the living environment with elaborate tomb designs and rock-cut furniture.

Etruscan temples utilized Tuscan columns, featured a single entrance, and were designed for frontal viewing, diverging from Greek architectural styles.

Development of the arch was pioneered by Etruscans, greatly influencing Roman architecture.
Artistic evolution showcased during different Roman periods: Monarchy, Early Empire, High Empire, and Late Empire, with contrasting styles and cultural shifts.

Veristic portraits from 509-27 BCE depicted aging faces as symbols of experience and devotion to the state, emphasizing realism.
Augustus (20 BCE) represented idealized divinity and youth, symbolizing peace and power through military imagery on his breastplate.

Established under Emperor Augustus, marked a period of relative peace and prosperity within the empire, fostering artistic revival influenced by Greek classics.

Ara Pacis Augustae (13-9 BCE) promoted Roman peace and prosperity, featuring motifs of the imperial family and agricultural abundance.
Column of Trajan (113-117 CE) narratively detailed military campaigns, showcasing Roman triumph and propaganda.

The Late Empire (193-337 CE) faced internal strife, including military turmoil and economic troubles, leading to a decline in artistic realism and an increase in symbolism.
The Tetrarchs (300 CE) exemplified the shift towards block-like stylization and uniformity in representation.

Roman wall painting evolved through four distinct styles, ranging from illusionistic techniques to ornate designs that emphasized decorative elements in domestic spaces.
Foreshortening techniques were used to create depth and perspective in artworks, enhancing the realism of figures.

Portraits of married couples depicted daily life and familial values, emphasizing realism and the importance of education in society.

Roman buildings featured designs with open spaces, decorative marble mimicking, and structured atriums that enhanced light and community life.
The influence of Greek architecture persisted throughout, adapting themes and styles to suit Roman societal needs.

Late Empire art frequently reflected the turmoil through simplified forms lacking earlier individuality, focusing instead on conveying broader themes of power and authority.