What new sensibilities do you see in Aegean and Early Greek art or architecture that are different from Egyptian art and architecture?
Part 1
For this discussion, pick a work of Aegean or early Greek art or architecture and put forward why you think it has a different sensibility than Ancient Egyptian art or architecture. Take into account any social or historical factors that you deem relevant.
Please post a response to the discussion topic. Your response should be at least 175 words.
Avoid saying something that makes you feel good and then leave it at that. Be sensitive, but focused on the art or building at hand.
Remember to respond to other people’s postings in a substantive way.
You are expected to join the discussion at least once a week.
You can include a web link when responding to the discussion by copying/pasting the URL directly in the response area. Write next to it a brief reference that includes author, subject or title.
Part 2
Respond to the following analysis
The piece I chose for this discussion was the Octopus vase (bottom left) that dates to the Minoan culture of 1400 BCE. This vase is full of life! The octopus has expression in its’ eyes, which seem almost to be looking at the observer in a startled state. Although, there is almost, it seems to me, a smile on his face! The eyes are open wide and the two tenacles beside the head seem to be ‘waving’ in the air, as though trying to get the attention of the viewer. There is certain vitality and liveliness one feels when viewing this artwork. Every detail of this is symmetrical and nearly all the surface is covered in decoration; either the octopus with its’ tenacles or the intricate designs in between. Pottery was very important in Minoan society and this vase would likely have been produced for a wealthy elite. (German). In addition, Minoans were skillful in maritime trade and there were intricate networks that spread from Crete to Cyprus, Greece, and Egypt. This navigational proficiency is reflected in the considerable maritime pottery, such as this Octopus vase, produced during this time. The elaborate nautical theme replicates and is inspired by this seafaring nature of the Minoan culture. (German).
In contrast, Egyptian art mirrored nature and was associated with the afterlife. They believed an image would produce an event in the afterlife. And that the soul needs a place to come back to, so it does not get lost. (Cirigliano). Egyptian art was ruled by propriety, with specific directions. “Consistency equals divine balance and justification of Egyptian culture.” (Cirigliano). Egyptian pottery designs were repetitious and simple. They do not seem to exert the same energy the Ancient Greek designs convey.
Part 1 should be 1 page and part 2 should be 1 page or less. The writer has to make sure to include a reference from the following sources.
And https://moodle.esc.edu/pluginfile.php/3880412/mod_page/content/12/M1%20Ancient%20Egypt%20Its%20Religion%20and%20Its%20Architecture.pdf. When responding to part 1.
