5.2 Panel painting
4 min read•august 15, 2024
revolutionized Greek art in the Archaic period. Artists could now create portable, detailed works on wooden panels using techniques. This allowed for more intricate designs and vivid colors than traditional wall paintings.
These panels depicted myths, religious scenes, and daily life. They influenced other art forms like vase painting and sculpture. The portability of panels also helped spread across the Greek world, shaping the visual culture of the time.
Panel Painting in Archaic Greece
Definition and Significance
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- Panel painting technique of painting on wooden panels, significant development in Archaic Greek art
- Wood support allowed greater portability and flexibility compared to wall paintings or frescoes (more easily transported and displayed in various locations)
- Panel paintings often used for decorative purposes
- Adorned interiors of buildings
- Served as in temples (dedicated to deities or heroes)
- Development of panel painting technique enabled artists to create more detailed and complex compositions than previously possible
- Surviving examples of Archaic Greek panel paintings provide valuable insights into artistic styles, techniques, and subject matter of the period (, )
Preparation and Techniques
- carefully prepared by smoothing surface and applying layer of gesso (mixture of gypsum and glue) to create suitable surface for painting
- Tempera technique employed, mixing pigments with water-soluble binder such as egg yolk
- Tempera technique allowed for greater precision and detail in application of paint, enabling artists to create intricate designs and patterns (elaborate clothing, detailed facial features)
- Use of vivid colors, bold outlines, and decorative patterns characteristic of Archaic panel painting, creating striking visual effect
Panel Painting vs Frescoes and Wall Paintings
Differences in Materials and Supports
- Panel paintings created on wooden supports, typically made from cedar, cypress, or other durable woods
- Frescoes and wall paintings applied directly onto plaster of walls or ceilings (integral part of architectural structure)
- Wood panels portable and could be moved from one location to another
- Frescoes and wall paintings permanent fixtures integrated into architecture (could not be easily relocated)
Variations in Painting Techniques
- Panel paintings used tempera technique, mixing pigments with water-soluble binder such as egg yolk
- Frescoes used water-based pigments applied to wet plaster (pigments absorbed into plaster as it dried)
- Tempera technique in panel paintings allowed for greater precision and detail compared to frescoes
- Frescoes relied on swift execution and broad brushstrokes due to drying time of plaster
Subject Matter of Archaic Greek Panel Paintings
Mythological Scenes and Religious Narratives
- Surviving Archaic Greek panel paintings often depict , , representations of gods, goddesses, and heroes
- Iconography frequently included and attributes associated with specific deities or mythological figures
- with his thunderbolt
- with her aegis and helmet
- Compositions often employed flat, two-dimensional style, with figures arranged in frieze-like manner and minimal indication of depth or perspective
Warrior Imagery and Daily Life
- Battle scenes and warrior imagery common subjects, reflecting martial values and ideals of the period (depictions of , heroic combat)
- Some panel paintings featured scenes from daily life
- Athletic competitions (, )
- and (social gatherings)
- and festivals (religious ceremonies, wedding processions)
- Provided insights into Archaic Greek society and culture, showcasing various aspects of everyday activities and social practices
Influence of Panel Painting on Archaic Greek Art
Impact on Vase Painting
- Techniques and styles developed in panel painting had significant impact on vase painting
- Use of vivid colors, bold outlines, and flat, two-dimensional compositions evident in black-figure and red-figure styles of vase painting
- Iconography and subject matter of panel paintings frequently adapted and incorporated into decoration of Archaic Greek vases (mythological scenes, heroic narratives)
Influence on Sculpture
- Attention to detail and precision achieved in panel painting influenced development of more naturalistic and expressive styles in Archaic Greek sculpture
- Sculptors aimed to capture lifelike qualities and emotions seen in painted figures
- Techniques of rendering drapery, facial features, and anatomical details in panel paintings translated into sculptural forms (kouroi, )
Dissemination of Artistic Styles
- Portability of panel paintings may have contributed to dissemination of artistic styles and motifs across different regions of Greek world
- Facilitated and influenced local artistic traditions
- Traveling artists or workshops could transport panel paintings, spreading new techniques and iconographic elements to various cities and sanctuaries
Key Terms to Review (26)
Artistic styles: Artistic styles refer to the distinctive visual characteristics and techniques employed by artists in creating works of art, which can reflect cultural, historical, and personal influences. These styles can vary widely and often evolve over time, showcasing shifts in artistic trends, themes, and methods. Understanding artistic styles helps in interpreting artworks and recognizing the intent and context behind their creation.
Athena: Athena is the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom, warfare, and crafts, often depicted as a protector of cities, particularly Athens. As a multifaceted deity, she embodies the ideals of intelligence, strategy in battle, and artistic skill, influencing various aspects of Greek life and culture.
Banquets: Banquets were lavish feasts held in ancient Greece, typically to celebrate significant events or honor guests. These gatherings played a crucial role in social life, serving as a platform for displaying wealth, fostering relationships, and engaging in discussions of political, cultural, and philosophical importance. The visual representation of banquets often appeared in art forms, including panel painting, where they were depicted to convey the importance of these gatherings in Greek society.
Black-figure style: Black-figure style is a technique of ancient Greek pottery decoration where figures and scenes are painted in a black slip on a red clay background. This style emerged around the 7th century BCE and became the dominant form of vase painting until it was eventually replaced by the red-figure style in the late 6th century BCE. The intricate detailing allowed artists to depict mythological narratives and everyday life, showcasing both technical skill and aesthetic beauty.
Chariot Races: Chariot races were thrilling competitions held in ancient Greece, typically in large arenas known as hippodromes, where charioteers raced teams of horses to victory. These races were not only a test of speed and skill but also a major social and religious event, often associated with festivals like the Olympics and other games. Chariot racing showcased both individual prowess and the power of the city-state, making it a significant aspect of ancient Greek culture.
Civic identity: Civic identity refers to the sense of belonging and engagement that individuals have with their community or society, often shaped by shared values, culture, and history. This concept highlights the role of individuals as active participants in civic life, influencing their responsibilities and rights within a political and social framework. The development of civic identity is often reflected in artistic expressions, like panel painting, which capture communal narratives and ideals.
Corinthian Panels: Corinthian panels are a specific type of decorative panel painting that emerged in ancient Greece, characterized by their intricate and elaborate designs, often depicting mythological scenes or figures. These panels were typically made of wood and served both artistic and functional purposes, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of structures and artifacts while also providing insights into the cultural values and artistic techniques of the time.
Cultural exchange: Cultural exchange refers to the process through which different cultures share ideas, beliefs, practices, and artistic expressions. This interaction can lead to a mutual influence where various cultural elements are adopted and adapted across societies, enriching both cultures involved. In the context of visual arts, such exchanges can significantly affect styles, techniques, and themes, particularly seen in the evolution of panel painting.
Flat panels: Flat panels are two-dimensional surfaces used as a support for painting, commonly made of wood or canvas, which serve as a primary medium in panel painting. These surfaces allow artists to create detailed, intricate imagery and are often prepared with layers of gesso for better paint adhesion. The use of flat panels has a significant historical impact on the evolution of painting techniques and styles.
Hoplite Soldiers: Hoplite soldiers were heavily armed foot soldiers of ancient Greece, primarily active from the 7th to the 4th centuries BCE. These warriors were known for their distinctive armor and the phalanx formation, which emphasized teamwork and discipline in battle. Their role in Greek warfare significantly shaped the military strategies of city-states and influenced the development of art, particularly panel paintings that depicted their valor and heroism.
Korai: Korai are ancient Greek statues of young women, often depicted in a standing pose and typically characterized by their elaborate clothing and stylized features. These sculptures are significant in illustrating the evolving artistic techniques and cultural values of the Archaic period, particularly in how they reflect societal roles, religious practices, and the idealization of youth and beauty.
Kourai: Kouroi are freestanding ancient Greek sculptures that typically depict young male figures, often in a frontal pose with one foot slightly advanced. These statues serve as important representations of the evolving art and culture of Archaic Greece, reflecting the social values of the time, including ideals of beauty, youth, and physical perfection. Kouroi are significant for their role in various functions, such as grave markers or offerings to the gods, and they highlight the connection between artistic expression and the broader social and political landscape.
Mythological scenes: Mythological scenes refer to depictions of stories from ancient myths, often illustrated in various art forms, including pottery, sculpture, and painting. These scenes typically represent gods, heroes, and mythical creatures, conveying narratives that are central to cultural identity and values. They play a crucial role in the artistic expressions of ancient cultures, showcasing both the technical skills of artists and the cultural significance of the myths themselves.
Panel painting: Panel painting refers to the technique of painting on a flat surface, typically made of wood, where artists would apply their designs using various mediums like oil or tempera. This method was widely used during the Renaissance and in earlier periods, allowing for detailed imagery and an emphasis on texture, color, and depth.
Pitsa panels: Pitsa panels are a series of ancient Greek painted wooden panels that date back to the 6th century BCE, recognized for their intricate designs and vibrant colors. These panels represent an important form of panel painting in Archaic Greece, illustrating various themes including mythology, ritual, and everyday life, thus providing insight into the cultural values and artistic practices of the time.
Processions: Processions are organized groups of individuals moving together in a formal manner, often for religious or cultural purposes. These events can be significant in terms of social cohesion, demonstrating shared beliefs and values within a community, and often involve various forms of artistic expression, such as music, dance, and visual art.
Red-figure style: Red-figure style is a significant pottery painting technique that originated in ancient Greece around the late 6th century BCE, characterized by its use of a red clay background with black-painted figures. This method allowed for greater detail and complexity in the depiction of human anatomy, clothing, and intricate scenes compared to its predecessor, the black-figure style. The evolution of this style marks a pivotal moment in Greek art, showcasing advancements in artistic expression and technical skill.
Religious narratives: Religious narratives are stories that convey the beliefs, values, and teachings of a religion, often illustrating moral lessons or foundational myths. These narratives are essential for understanding cultural identities and can influence art, literature, and social practices within religious communities. They play a crucial role in shaping the spiritual experiences of individuals and provide a framework for interpreting the world.
Social status: Social status refers to an individual's position or rank within a social hierarchy, which is often determined by factors such as wealth, occupation, education, and family background. In ancient cultures, including Greece, social status played a significant role in shaping personal identity and community roles, influencing everything from artistic representation to access to resources and power. The way individuals were portrayed in art, such as in frescoes and wall paintings, as well as in panel paintings, often reflected their social standing and the societal values of the time.
Symbolic elements: Symbolic elements are visual motifs or representations that convey deeper meanings or ideas within art. In the context of panel painting, these elements can communicate narratives, cultural values, or spiritual beliefs, transcending mere aesthetic appeal and engaging viewers on a more profound level.
Symposia: Symposia were social gatherings in ancient Greece, where men would come together to drink, discuss philosophical topics, and engage in entertainment. These events reflected the values and social hierarchies of Greek society, showcasing the importance of camaraderie, intellectual discourse, and the role of drinking in establishing social bonds. Art from this era often depicted these gatherings, revealing how they served as a microcosm of the political and cultural dynamics of the time.
Tempera: Tempera is a fast-drying paint made from colored pigments mixed with a water-soluble binder, such as egg yolk. This medium has been widely used in panel painting throughout history, allowing artists to create vibrant and detailed works on wooden surfaces. Tempera's unique properties enable fine lines and intricate detailing, making it an essential technique in the creation of early paintings.
Votive Offerings: Votive offerings are objects, often sculptures or artifacts, that are dedicated to a deity in fulfillment of a vow or as an expression of gratitude. These offerings were integral to ancient Greek religious practices, serving as a means of communicating with the divine and showcasing devotion, especially evident in the context of sculptural forms and architectural developments during the Archaic period.
Wood panels: Wood panels are flat pieces made from wood that are often used as a support for painting, particularly in panel painting techniques. These panels were popular in various artistic traditions due to their durability and ability to hold paint well, making them ideal for creating detailed and long-lasting artworks.
Wrestling matches: Wrestling matches in the context of Archaic Greece were competitive events that showcased physical strength, skill, and athletic prowess. These matches were a significant part of the Panhellenic Games, including the Olympic Games, and reflected the cultural values of competition and honor within ancient Greek society. Wrestling not only served as a sport but also as a form of training for young men and a display of their social status and capabilities.
Zeus: Zeus is the king of the gods in ancient Greek mythology, known for his role as the god of the sky, thunder, and lightning. He was considered the ruler of Mount Olympus and held significant power over other gods and mortals alike. His importance is reflected in various historical and cultural contexts, especially through the artistic representations found in panel painting, showcasing his influence and authority in both religion and society.