Art History: GREEK VASES

Greek vases are an intricate and indestructible part of ancient Greek art and culture These vases were used for a variety of purposes, ranging from storing wine and oil to serving as grave markers and decorative pieces.

One of the most notable features of Greek vases is their detailed designs These designs often depicted scenes from Greek mythology and human activity The designs were typically painted in black or red on a light-colored background, with the black-figure technique being the most popular during the 6th and 5th centuries BCE

The red and black figure techniques worked in a similar way where first the vessel of the vase was shaped on a pottery wheel Figural and ornamental motifs were applied that turned black during the firing process and the background stayed the color of the clay For the red figure technique the motifs remained the color of the clay while the background got filled in and turned black during the firing process

In addition to their aesthetic value, Greek vases also hold significant historical and cultural significance. They offer a glimpse into the daily life and beliefs of ancient Greek society, including their religious practices, social customs, and artistic traditions

Today, Greek vases can be found in museums and collections around the world, providing a window into the history and culture of ancient Greece Their intricate designs and cultural significance continue to captivate scholars and art lovers alike, making them an enduring symbol of the ancient world

T E R R A C O T T A

Terracotta simply means fired clay This image on the right is a vase depicting a combat scene between two warriors

The reverse side of this vase features a depiction of the god of wine

T E R R E C O T T A N E C K

This vase depicts similar combat scenes on the shoulder of the vase. On the body of this blackfigured vase it shows a woman and man riding along in a chariot and accompanied by others

S H A P E S O F V A S E S

Vases were made in a variety of shapes and sizes Each vase contained it's own purpose and function The Krater was used to mix wine and water The hydria was used for collecting and carrying water

The zones of the vases could contain structuraly a lip, neck, handles, shoulders, the body of the vase, and the foot, which was the base

The image on the left featuring the drinking cup uses a white- ground technique It is similar the the red figure where the figures are on a white washed background and requires the artists to paint on the details of the forms