Ancient Greek and Roman Art: Influences and Innovations
The evolution of Western art from ancient Greece is crucial for understanding Western history. The Greeks developed techniques (teknos) to create craftwork, achieving incredible perfection. Carpenters, craftsmen, and sculptors were highly regarded, unlike painters who were sometimes looked down upon. The Middle Ages generally maintained the aristocratic social value of labor, with intellectual pursuits like music, theater, poetry, and dance considered more meritorious than manual work. It wasn’t until the Renaissance that the Greeks’ sublimation was truly appreciated, and society began to fully recognize the nature of artistic work.
Roman Art and Architecture
Initially, the Etruscans of Tuscany and Umbria, influenced by Indo-European culture, dominated public policy and culture in Rome. After conquering Great Greece (Magna Graecia), the Romans had direct contact with Greek culture, leading to a broader appreciation of artistic expression. They studied architectural orders and channel structures, incorporating them into their designs.
The Roman Empire’s eastward expansion brought immense wealth and influence. They integrated natural elements from Eastern cultures and Greek traditions, asserting architectural supremacy. Roman architecture combined pragmatism with beauty, resulting in advanced modern styles. Roman works of art and engineering remain models of excellence.
Materials and Techniques
Besides ashlar and brick, the Romans innovated with concrete, a durable mixture of stone and lime paste. This cheap and adaptable material was poured into molds, creating walls. While the concrete was often covered with marble and stucco, it formed the structural basis of many buildings.
Architectural Elements
The Romans adopted and refined architectural elements like semi-circular arches and various domes (hemispherical, barrel vaults, and edge domes) from the Etruscans. They built dedicated structures for various purposes, including sewage systems, large temples, baths, and basilicas.
Greek orders, particularly Corinthian, were used as decorative elements. The Romans also developed new orders:
- Tuscan Order: A simplified Doric order with smooth shafts and no triglyphs or metopes.
- Composite Order: A combination of Ionic (volutes) and Corinthian (acanthus leaves) elements.
The use of arches, pediments, and convex friezes contributed to the aesthetics of Greek and Roman buildings. While maintaining a sense of order, the buildings were also dynamic.
Social and Political Context
The social and political organization of the Roman Empire emphasized the individual’s role, but participation was limited. The Romans dedicated themselves to the Empire’s greatness, creating large, enclosed urban spaces (urbs). Engineering feats like roads and bridges facilitated communication throughout the vast empire.