Greek Sculpture

Explains the social function and aesthetic achievement of Greek sculpture from c.750 BC to the end of antiquity.

Nigel Spivey (Author)

9780521756983, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 31 January 2013

350 pages, 176 b/w illus. 8 colour illus.
24.5 x 19 x 1.6 cm, 0.78 kg

Ancient Greek sculpture seems to have a timeless quality – provoking reactions that may range from awe to alienation. Yet it was a particular product of its age: and to know how and why it was once created is to embark upon an understanding of its 'Classic' status. In this richly illustrated and carefully written survey, encompassing works from c.700 BC to the end of antiquity, Nigel Spivey expounds not only the social function of Greek sculpture but also its aesthetic and technical achievement. Fresh approaches are reconciled with traditional modes of study as the connoisseurship of this art is sympathetically unravelled, while source material and historical narratives are woven into detailed explanations, putting the art into its proper context. Greek Sculpture is the ideal textbook for students of classics, classical civilisation, art history and archaeology – and an accessible account for all interested readers.

List of illustrations
Preface
1. Introduction: the study of Greek sculpture
2. 'The Greek revolution'
3. Daedalus and the wings of Technê
4. Anathêmata: gifts for the Gods
5. Heroes apparent
6. Temple stories
7. In search of Pheidias
8. Revealing Aphrodite
9. Royal patronage
10. Portraits and personifications
11. Graecia Capta
12. Afterlife.

Subject Areas: Classical Greek & Roman archaeology [HDDK], Classical history / classical civilisation [HBLA1], Ancient history: to c 500 CE [HBLA], Sculpture [AFKB], History of art: ancient & classical art,BCE to c 500 CE [ACG]