Ranging from 7th century BC to around 600 AD ancient Greek civilisation has been studied in much detail, with much information coming from their works of art.
Ancient Greek art can be categorised into four periods: geometric, archaic, classical and Hellenistic. This art is considered by many as some of the most influential ever produced.
The Venus de Milo
This Hellenistic sculpture was found on the island of Milo. The statue is an exquisite piece of sculpting made from marble.
It is not known who the creator of this work of art was. This sculpture is most well known for its missing arms and is a spectacular embodiment of the female form.
The Amphipolis Mosaic
This mosaic was discovered within a Macedonian burial site in the Kasta tomb in Greece in 2012. This stunning work of art depicts Hermes, who conducts souls into the next life.
He is leading a chariot driven by Hades who had just abducted Persephone. This popular myth is well known and the story is retold over and over again.
Mask of Agamemnon
This was discovered in a grave in 1876 at Mycenae. This artefact is often referred to as the Mona Lisa of prehistory. The mask is made of gold and was found covering the face of a body.
Modern archaeologists have suggested that the mask is not actually Agamemnon’s as the mask has been dated before Agamemnon. The mask can be seen at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens.
Vatican Amphora
The ancient Greek painter and potter, Exekias, made the Vatican Amphora. The Amphora displays Achilles and Ajax wearing their full body armour and playing a board game.
This work of art can be seen at the Vatican museums.
Leaning or Resting Satyr
It is thought that Praxiteles, a Greek sculptor was responsible for this creation. The statue depicts a satyr leaning his elbow on a tree trunk. This sculpture has been copied numerous times and is considered as one of the most famous artworks.
One of these can be viewed at the Capitoline Museum in Rome, and if you win big playing bingo for money, you should definitely book yourself a ticket.
The Derveni Crater
This artefact is a massive vase weighing 40kg, which would have been used to mix wine and water during ancient times. The vase is made from bronze and tin and looks gold, but does not contain any gold.
This vase was found in a tomb in the coastal town of Derveni, Corinthia in 1962. It is on display at the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki. It was probably fashioned in Athens during the 4th century BC. These types of artefacts are rare.
Winged Victory of Samothrace
Also referred to as the Nike of Samothrace this sculpture is a depiction of Nike, who is the Greek goddess of victory. Not only does it honour the goddess but was also made to honour a sea battle.
This magnificent statue is 8.01 ft. high and is made from marble and is thought to have been made during the 2nd century BC. It can be seen at the Louvre and is one of the most viewed artefacts in the museum.
