Kritios

Definition

Kritios was an influential Greek sculptor active during the transition from the Archaic to the Classical period, notably recognized for his role in developing the Severe Style. He is often associated with a shift towards more naturalistic and expressive representations of the human figure, moving away from the rigid and stylized forms characteristic of earlier sculpture.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kritios is often credited with creating one of the first sculptures to exhibit contrapposto, notably seen in the 'Kritios Boy', which displays a more relaxed stance compared to earlier figures.
2. The 'Kritios Boy' dates back to around 480 BCE and marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of Greek sculpture towards greater realism and emotional expression.
3. Kritios was part of a broader movement among artists who sought to capture human anatomy and movement with increasing accuracy, laying groundwork for future developments in classical art.
4. His work reflects a transition from the idealized forms of the Archaic period to a more naturalistic approach that became hallmarks of Classical art.
5. Kritios' influence can be seen in subsequent sculptures, inspiring later artists like Polykleitos who further explored proportion and form.

Review Questions

• How did Kritios contribute to the transition from Archaic to Classical sculpture?
  • Kritios played a vital role in the transition from Archaic to Classical sculpture by introducing more naturalistic and expressive elements into his works. His most famous piece, the 'Kritios Boy', showcases this shift through its use of contrapposto, which creates a more dynamic pose compared to the stiff figures typical of the Archaic period. This move towards realism and emotional depth laid important groundwork for future sculptors in the Classical era.
• In what ways does Kritios' work exemplify the characteristics of the Severe Style in sculpture?
  • Kritios' work exemplifies the Severe Style through its emphasis on simplicity, calmness, and restrained expression. The 'Kritios Boy', with its realistic proportions and subtle portrayal of movement, demonstrates how Kritios moved away from overly stylized figures. This style emphasizes an adherence to anatomical accuracy while still embodying a sense of serenity, highlighting the artist's innovative approach during this pivotal time in Greek art.
• Evaluate Kritios' lasting impact on subsequent generations of sculptors in terms of technique and artistic philosophy.
  • Kritios' impact on future sculptors was profound, particularly in terms of technique and artistic philosophy. By pioneering the use of contrapposto and emphasizing naturalism, he set new standards for representing the human body that influenced artists like Polykleitos. The principles established by Kritios concerning proportion, anatomy, and realistic expression became foundational elements in Classical sculpture, shaping artistic practices for centuries to come.

Related terms

Severe Style: A style of Greek sculpture that emerged in the early Classical period, characterized by more naturalistic forms, realistic proportions, and a sense of calm and restraint.

Contrapposto: A sculptural technique where the human figure is posed such that weight is shifted onto one leg, creating a more dynamic and relaxed stance.

Polykleitos: Another prominent sculptor of the Classical period known for his canon of proportions and the idealized representation of the human body, influencing later generations of artists.