Ivory

Definition

Ivory is a dense, white material derived from the tusks and teeth of animals, notably elephants. In the context of decorative arts, particularly during the Hellenistic period, ivory was highly prized for its beauty and workability, making it a popular choice for intricate carvings and luxurious objects that showcased artistic skills and wealth.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ivory was often imported from Africa and Asia during the Hellenistic period, indicating trade connections and the reach of Hellenistic culture.
2. The use of ivory in decorative arts included not just sculptures but also functional items like furniture inlays and personal adornments.
3. Artisans skilled in ivory carving were highly respected, creating pieces that showcased intricate designs, textures, and lifelike representations.
4. Ivory's versatility allowed it to be combined with other materials such as wood and metal, enhancing the visual appeal of various artworks.
5. During this period, the aesthetic value of ivory was often associated with luxury and status, making it a desirable material among the elite.

Review Questions

• How did the use of ivory in Hellenistic decorative arts reflect the cultural values and trade practices of the time?
  • The use of ivory in Hellenistic decorative arts exemplified both cultural values and extensive trade practices. As a luxurious material imported from distant regions like Africa and Asia, ivory signified wealth and sophistication among the elite. Its intricate carvings not only showcased artistic prowess but also represented a connection to broader trade networks that facilitated cultural exchange and economic interaction during this era.
• Discuss the significance of chryselephantine sculptures in relation to ivory's role in Hellenistic art.
  • Chryselephantine sculptures highlight ivory's significance in Hellenistic art by combining it with gold to create opulent works that embodied luxury. This technique not only demonstrated advanced craftsmanship but also illustrated how artists leveraged ivory's unique qualities to achieve stunning visual effects. The use of both materials in sculptures conveyed power and divine attributes, making them popular for temples and public spaces.
• Evaluate the impact of exotic materials like ivory on the social hierarchy and artistic expression during the Hellenistic period.
  • Exotic materials like ivory played a crucial role in establishing social hierarchy during the Hellenistic period by marking distinctions between classes based on access to luxury goods. The ability to commission intricate ivory pieces became a symbol of status among the wealthy elite. This demand for luxury led to a flourishing of artistic expression as artisans pushed creative boundaries to satisfy elite tastes, resulting in innovative techniques and forms that influenced subsequent artistic movements.

Related terms

Chryselephantine: A technique involving the use of gold and ivory to create sculptures or decorative elements, often seen in significant Hellenistic works like statues.

Relief Sculpture: A sculptural technique where the figures are raised from a flat background, often used in ivory carving to create detailed scenes or figures.

Exotic Materials: Materials that were rare or imported from distant lands, such as ivory, which were used in Hellenistic art to reflect wealth and cultural connections.