1.

Periods of Greek Art:

 Geometric Period (900-700 BCE): Characterized by geometric motifs and

patterns on pottery. This period marks the emergence of Greek art.
 Archaic Period (700-480 BCE): Known for the development of major
sculptural forms, including the kouros (standing male youth) and kore
(standing female youth) figures. This period also saw the introduction of
black-figure pottery.
 Classical Period (480-323 BCE): Marked by the pursuit of idealized
naturalism and the introduction of contrapposto in sculpture. Famous
works from this period include the Parthenon sculptures and the
Discobolus by Myron.
 Hellenistic Period (323-31 BCE): Known for its increased emotional
expression and dynamism in art. Notable examples include the Laocoön
Group and the Venus de Milo.

2. Sculpture:

 Material: Greek sculptors initially used wood and limestone, later

advancing to marble and bronze.
 Techniques: The Greeks developed techniques such as lost-wax casting
for bronze and fine chiseling for marble.
 Form and Style: Greek sculpture evolved from rigid and simplistic forms
to more naturalistic and dynamic poses. The development of contrapposto
(a relaxed stance with weight shifted onto one leg) was a significant
innovation.

3. Pottery:

 Styles: Greek pottery features various styles including geometric, black-

figure, and red-figure techniques. Black-figure pottery involved painting
figures in black slip on a red clay background, while red-figure pottery
reversed this, allowing for greater detail and realism.
 Functions: Pottery was used for a variety of purposes, including storage,
drinking, and ceremonial functions. Common forms include amphorae,
kraters, kylixes, and lekythoi.
4. Architecture:

 Orders: Greek architecture is known for its three orders: Doric, Ionic, and
Corinthian. Each order has distinct characteristics, such as the plain capitals
of the Doric, the volutes of the Ionic, and the ornate acanthus leaves of the
Corinthian.
 Famous Structures: Notable architectural achievements include the
Parthenon, the Temple of Hephaestus, and the Erechtheion, all located on
the Acropolis of Athens. These structures showcase the Greeks' mastery of
proportion, symmetry, and optical corrections.

5. Painting:

 Vase Painting: Much of what is known about Greek painting comes from
their decorated pottery, as few examples of panel or wall paintings survive.
 Frescoes and Mosaics: Greek artists also produced frescoes and mosaics,
especially during the Hellenistic period. These artworks adorned public
buildings and private homes, often depicting mythological scenes and
daily life.

6. Influence:

 Greek art has had a profound influence on Roman art, Renaissance art, and
even modern art. Roman artists often copied Greek originals, and the
ideals of beauty, proportion, and harmony established by Greek artists
continue to inspire artists today.

7. Philosophical Context:

 Greek art was deeply connected to their philosophy and religion. The
pursuit of beauty (kalos) and goodness (agathos) was seen as
interconnected, and the depiction of gods, heroes, and athletes reflected
ideals of physical and moral excellence.

8. Technological and Scientific Achievements:

 The Greeks made significant advancements in understanding human

anatomy, which they applied to their sculptures to achieve a high degree
of realism. They also developed sophisticated techniques for working with
bronze and marble, some of which were lost and only rediscovered in later
centuries.