Pamela Ramasami
ARH 2050
Prof Kaufman

Lowes Museum Paper

1. Greek and/or Roman art: How is the body depicted in the art you select?

Greek Chosen Art Work: Calyx Krater, Unknown Artist, 4th century BCE, Ancient Greek
Next to Art Work: Bacchanal, by Anthony Triano, 1966, United States

The Calyx Krater has an abstracted style. The bodies are proportional to the scale, however the main god, Dionysian is the standout character throughout the piece. The bodies’ of the subjects have an idealized style. For example, Dionysian’s body is detailed to show muscles that convey strength. His body is covered with a simple toga, which loosely hugs him, to show off his natural male body. Like the male subject, the female has on a long strappy dress, which loosely covers her body, to hide any identifying curves. Although, all the figures are all minimally clothed, none of them has gender related details. For example, even though the satyr is completely naked, no pubic detail is present. Nor are any lines to symbolize the breasts on the female subject. The facial details of all the subjects are barely discernible, as if to draw the viewer’s attention towards their bodies.

Roman Chosen Art Work: Vertummus, Unknown Artist, 200-250 Ancient, Rome
Next to Art Work: Eros, Artist Unknown, 1st century, Ancient, Rome

The depiction of Verummus represents an idealized style. The body is depicted with a sense of strength and presence. The artist portrayed this great warrior’s strength through his strong chest and muscles, which were exposed. Additionally, his forearms were sculpted to perfection and his back was very tight and lean. The body overall was naked except for the toga and warrior gear that hung off his shoulder. The penis was present, which further emphasizes manhood. Surprisingly, the artist decided to make this piece headless, which has a Hellenistic effect. The body had a natural scale and looked somewhat life like. The feet were moderately detailed, and adored with sandals.

2. African art before 1400: Carefully describe the shapes used and their size relationships. Chosen Art Work: Mother and Child, Unknown Artist 500 BCE- 200 CE, Ancient African , Nok Culture
Next to Art Work: Dogon People, Unknown Artist 20th century, Ancient African, Mali

This unique ancient African piece is symbolic of the people who lived in the region of Nigeria during this period. The piece over all lacks many details and shapes; however the shapes that are present, brings this piece to life. One of the most utilized shapes is the oval. In this piece, the oval is used to represent the mother’s head as well as the child’s head. Closer inspection, you can also see the oval shape is present in the representation of the mother’s eyes and breasts.
In addition, the deep cravings to represent the shape of the eyelid are also an oval. These shapes are not predominant, rather undersized, as it enables the piece to mend together as a whole. A triangle is formed as the mother bends her legs in efforts to cradle her child. Additionally, triangles are present when the mother extends her elbow and rests her hand on her chin. This position creates a hallow space, which can be viewed as a teardrop shape. You also can see a circle is formed at the base, due to the way the mother is crouching. When analyzing her knee, you can also see the circle shape is present. Furthermore, when viewing separate body parts, you can see rectangles are present. For example, her arms, back, and legs can develop this shape as well as the baby’s abdomen. Smaller strips of rectangles are represented through the mother’s fingers as well as the baby’s fingers. Lastly, of course, are the shapes of a square and rectangle. These shapes are derived from the base, from which mother and child are resting upon.

3. Olmec art: Describe different functions of Olmec art based on several examples.

Chosen Art Work: Celt, Unknown Artist 1500- 400 BCE, Olmec
Next to Art Work: The Great Sphinx at Giza Artist Unknown, 2500 BCE, Ancient, Egypt

The first major Pre-Columbian civilization in Mexico, were the Olmec civilization. Most of the art works consisted of sculptures, statues, wooden artifacts, pottery, and carved jade jewelry. Some well known pieces of Olmec art, are the colossal heads. Made out of basalt and jade, these monstrous pieces have been speculated to serve the function as a sacrificial offering. Most likely, these pieces were representations of respected rulers. Speculation that these figures could have represented ancient ancestors could also be plausible. This idea makes sense, as the idealized and scale of these pieces would serve as a way for the Olmec people to pay their highest respect to their elders. When looking at my chosen piece, Celt, the size of this piece greatly differs from a popular colossal head. However, the same principal of using human characteristics and blending in animalistic qualities, in the form of a jaguar is very much present. This piece represents an infant in the process of a jaguar transformation. It could have functioned as a representation of strength and a magical concept. Its small size could serve as a practical function for portability. Perhaps this piece could have been used as a scared and protective object that the Olmec people carried with them. When viewing many pieces you can see that the facial features of all the creations are fierce. This could be a depiction of how the Olmec people chose to express their strength and power. As well as a way of representing that, they feel they are a strong civilization.

4. Mayan art: How is line used in Mayan art? Carefully describe line in your examples. Chosen Art Work: Cylinder Vessel, Unknown Artist, 650-850, Maya, Guatemala
Next to Art Work: Serape, Navajo, 1865- 1875, United States

Aesthetics was very predominant in the creation of many Mayan artworks, and the Cylinder Vessel was no exception. With its intricate detailed drawings, and simplistic shape, this piece manages to achieve an enjoyable balance for the viewer. The use of line is the standout feature throughout the piece. For example, the vase’s shape is very symmetrical. There is a thin boarder strip, which goes around the top lip, as well as the base of the bottom. This is an example of the artist’s use of contoured lines. In the middle of these boarders, is where you will find a beautiful drawing. It tells a story of a highly respected King on his throne, sitting in front of two attendants. The artist used the technique of thin black calligraphic lines to add details to the piece. The sketch for the king used thin lines, varying in texture. The King’s body was drawn with a light print; however, certain patterns on his clothing were darkened to show detail. For example, his elaborate headdress, of which, consisted of an axe that was attached to the headpiece, was created using darker coarser lines. In order to let the viewer have the ability to perceive the axe as a three dimensional object, the artist used implied lines, which enabled the axe to have the illusion of going back at an angle so it can be viewed as an object with mass. Additionally most of the details emphasized the throne. This included different patterns on the bottom portion of the throne, directional and contour lines, which gave the throne a three-dimensional aspect. Furthermore, the artist’s use of shading and pattern, which brought emphasis to certain areas of the throne and the main subject, the King.

5. Art from Ancient Columbia (substituting in Mayan): What materials are used and how was the work made?

Chosen Art Work: Ballgame Yoke, Artist Unknown, 300-600, Maya, Mexico
Next to Art Work: Cylinder Vessel, Unknown Artist, 650-850, Maya, Guatemala

The Mayan civilization lacked many advanced technologies, including metal tools. Most of tools the artists used to help them with the production of their pieces were made from stone, wood, or bone. Some of these materials were then constructed into useable chisels. Sharpen bone would take the place of a fine pointed picks, which would aid in the artist’s ability to add details to sculptures. Hammers were also used to chisel away stone or stucco. The Ballgame Yoke is made of out of hard granite. The use of chisels and hammers were necessary in order to free the desired “U” shape from the granite slabs. Chisels and picks were also some of the tools used, which enabled the artist to carve detailed reliefs into the rock. The artist also utilized sandstone to help smooth out the rougher edges of the piece until it reached a pleasing consistency. Another tool used, was brushes made out of animal hair or quills, to brush off pebbles and ground up granite. My second piece, Cylinder Vessel, is a ceramic vase, which was made out of clay. The Mayans collected the clay at the riverbanks and it was tempered with sand, ashes and tiny stones. A potter’s wheel was not available for use; instead, the Mayans constructed all their potteries by hand. They would then paint on designs using paints made from minerals and water using fine tip paintbrushes. The finished vessels were then placed in the sun to dry and to harden, or put into a large hole in the ground on a fire made with wood, covering the top with a large stone.

6. Art from Ancient Peru: Describe the style of a specific Peruvian culture’s ceramics or textiles.

Chosen Art Work: Stirrup Spout Bottle (owl), Unknown Artist 100-800 Ancient Peru, Moche
Next to Art Work: Stirrup Spout Bottle (Warrior God Ai-Aspace), Unknown Artist 100-800 Ancient Peru, Moche

The Moche civilization thrived in northern Peru from 100 AD – 800AD. Within this time, the artworks produced were very interesting and beautiful. Some of the pieces I was able to view, were all spout bottles of some kind; however, my chosen piece, Stirrup Spout Bottle (owl), stood out. The artist was inspired to use a realistic and representational style. This piece is a great representation of the Moche culture, as one of their most popular symbols, the owl, takes the spotlight in the piece. The owl depicts qualities, which the Mochican people believed were vital for their warriors to have. Some of which include, aggressive hunting skills, warfare, competition, and sacrifice. Like the owl, predominant animal use throughout many of the Moche pieces can be considered iconography. The three dimensional shape, as well as the detail carvings of the piece, added to the realistic appeal. When taking a closer look, you can see the artist depicts the owl to have alert and vivid features, which exemplifies the owl’s presence. Furthermore, these spout bottles were not only decorative, but also served a practical function. Due to their well-designed structure, these vessels could have been used in numerous situations. For example, the high stirrup and spout piece, made this vessel ideal for traveling. However, they were mainly used as daily household vessels to hold water. The blending of design and function can also represent the Mochian’s practicality.

7. Art from China and India: How is Chinese sculpture different than Indian?

Chinese Chosen Art Work: Warrior with Shield, Unknown Artist, late 3rd century, Western Jin Dynasty, China
Next to Art Work: China Five Dynasties, Unknown Artist, 907-959, Five Dynasties, China

Indian Chosen Art Work: Surasundari and Shardula, Unknown Artist, 12th century, India
Next to Art Work: Bodhisattva, Unknown Artist, mid 6th to 11th century, Northern Wei Dynasty, China

When comparing these two sculptures, the visual representations are very different. For example, the Chinese sculpture, “Warrior with Shield,” is a much smaller and less detailed piece. At only two feet tall, the warrior holds onto a shield, which overall, has the most detail throughout the piece. There are no independent body limbs and the whole piece resembles a silhouette. The warrior’s face is very generic and lacks details. A simple line forms his mouth and his eyes are barely noticeable. However, the Indian sculpture, “Surasundari and Shardula,” is very detailed. There are many different sections in the piece, which enables each character to shine and be seen. For example, Surasundari, is the main figure who is depicted. She has a hieratic scale throughout the piece, which emphasize importance. She is naked with the exception of her belt and necklace, each with decorative tassels hanging down. To the left is a detailed lion-like figure and directly beneath it is another figure that is known as the bearer of magical knowledge. The meanings of these sculptures also vary. The Chinese sculpture is a respectful depiction of a warrior. The artist may have used the lack of details to emphasize the warrior’s shield, which was representational of battle. This piece reflects strength and courage, as well as giving an insight to battle, which may have occurred in the period. The Indian sculpture was originally a decorative piece on a temple wall. This could mean that the piece pays particular respect to a special god. The Surasundari figure is a representation of the beautiful creations of the gods. They represent musicians, dancers, handmaidens, and other women of the celestial court. The presence of an animal and god related figure, is frequently present in many Indian sculptures. This piece is very expansive, but seems to have a special representation of the female gender. It could possibly reflect fertility and scarceness.

8. European art before 1400: Describe the painting style of the Gothic period based on your example.

Chosen Art Work: The Adoration of the Magi Unknown Artist, 1340, Ancient, Gothic, Italy
Next to Art Work: Madonna and Child with Saints Artist: Sano di Pietro, 1460-1480, Ancient, Italy

The Adoration of the Magi is a famous painting, which depicts the moment when Christ’s divinity was revealed for the first time to the gentiles. When viewing this painting you can see that the artist was inspired to use an abstract style. Furthermore, it is also an amazing representation of this scared event in the Christianity period. When you scan the piece, you can see there are different registers; however the viewer’s attention is drawn to a specific area, due to the artist’s technique of emphasis. Baby Christ and his mother, Mary, are depicted in a hieratic scale to emphasize importance and holiness. The artist depicts the three Magi, greeting baby Christ for the first time. Furthermore, he depicts an extremely socially common representation of the baby looking back at Mary for approval to go to the magus, who has his arms extended. The artist’s main goal of that technique could have been, to give baby Christ, more of a humanistic and relatable appeal. The other onlookers, on a higher register, dressed in traditional robes of their culture, reflect excited expressions and rejoice in this occasion. Additionally, the artist depicts four angels praying and looking above, perhaps, giving thanks to God. In the lowest corner, you can also see two observers present, who looks to be praying directly to the baby Christ. Throughout the piece, animals are present, in the form of horses and goats. The viewer can also see little speckles of vegetation that looks to be leaves, twigs, and berries which decorates the piece. These additions to the painting can represent nature and purity as well. The register-like objects that the onlookers are drawn upon can be viewed as mountains, which signify strength.