Greek art and archaeology

About This Book

Synopsis: Now in its fifth edition, Greek Art and Archaeology charts the achievements of Greek art and civilization over 3000 years, from the abstract figures of the Cycladic islands and the mighty palaces of Crete to the baroque sculptures and complex architecture of the Hellenistic kingdoms. This new edition introduces a wealth of new material including discussion and illustration of new findings at early Bronze Age sites in Crete and the Cycladic Islands, the fourteenth century BC Uluburun shipwreck, the evolution of coinage in the Greek city states, the purpose and function of temples and the Kouros figure in Archaic Greece, new ideas on interpreting the frieze of the Parthenon, and expanded coverage of the wealth and culture of Macedon. In addition, there are over 50 new color images of key works in the history of Greek art, including the Hera of Samos, the Motya charioteer, the Parthenon frieze, and newly commissioned photography of one of the masterpieces of later Greek art, the Alexander Sarcophagus. Written in a clear style, the book neatly balances lucid description with insightful interpretation and discussion. Intended for students and art enthusiasts of any age, it provides the most accessible and authoritative introduction to Greek art and archaeology available today.