Pediments

Definition

Pediments are triangular architectural features located at the ends of buildings, particularly seen in classical Greek temples. They serve as a decorative element that often includes sculptures or reliefs, telling stories from mythology or celebrating deities, thus linking art and architecture in the Archaic period. This feature represents the intersection of form and function in ancient Greek design, emphasizing symmetry and harmony.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pediments are most commonly associated with Greek temple architecture, such as the Parthenon in Athens.
2. The sculptures in pediments often depict important mythological scenes or figures that relate to the temple's dedication.
3. In the Archaic period, pediments began to feature more elaborate and expressive sculptures, reflecting the evolving artistic styles of the time.
4. The use of pediments symbolized the Greeks' emphasis on symmetry and balance, which were key principles in their architectural designs.
5. As Greek architecture evolved into the Classical period, pediments continued to be an essential feature, influencing Roman architecture and beyond.

Review Questions

• How did the design of pediments reflect the values and beliefs of ancient Greek culture?
  • The design of pediments reflected ancient Greek values such as harmony, balance, and reverence for mythology. By incorporating sculptures that depicted significant mythological narratives or deities, pediments served not only as decorative elements but also as storytelling devices that reinforced cultural beliefs. The emphasis on symmetry and proportion in their construction showcased the Greeks' pursuit of beauty and order in their architectural endeavors.
• Discuss the role of pediments in both religious and civic architecture during the Archaic period.
  • In the Archaic period, pediments played a vital role in both religious and civic architecture by serving as focal points for worship and public gatherings. In temples dedicated to gods, the imagery on the pediment conveyed divine narratives that strengthened communal identity and religious devotion. Similarly, civic buildings incorporated pediments to symbolize authority and governance, using sculptural reliefs to communicate civic values and ideals to the public.
• Evaluate how the evolution of pedimental design from the Archaic to Classical periods illustrates changes in artistic techniques and cultural priorities in ancient Greece.
  • The evolution of pedimental design from the Archaic to Classical periods highlights significant changes in artistic techniques and cultural priorities within ancient Greece. During the Archaic period, sculptural figures were often stiff and less naturalistic, focusing more on iconography than realism. As artists developed advanced techniques during the Classical period, figures became more dynamic and expressive, reflecting a shift toward realism and individualism. This transformation demonstrates a broader cultural priority for human experience and emotion within art, marking a significant departure from earlier styles.

Related terms

Frieze: A horizontal band of sculpted or painted decoration that runs along the upper part of a wall, often found above columns in classical architecture.

Entablature: The horizontal structure supported by columns in classical architecture, which includes the architrave, frieze, and cornice.

Acroterion: A decorative element placed at the apex or corners of a pediment, often used to enhance the visual appeal of classical buildings.