6.2 Terracotta figurines

Terracotta figurines were a big deal in ancient Greece. These clay sculptures weren't just pretty decorations – they played important roles in religious rituals, funerals, and everyday life. From tiny offerings to life-sized statues, they give us a peek into Greek culture.

Making these figurines was an art form. Craftsmen used local clay, shaping it by hand or with molds. After drying and firing, they added colorful paint and details. The styles and subjects evolved over time, showing changes in Greek art and society.

Production of Archaic Greek Terracotta Figurines

Materials and Techniques

Top images from around the web for Materials and Techniques

• 

  Category:Archaic Greek terracotta figurines in AM Agrigento - Wikimedia Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Category:Ancient Greek terracotta figurines in the Sozopol Archaeological Museum - Wikimedia Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Category:Archaic Greek terracotta figurines in AM Agrigento - Wikimedia Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Category:Archaic Greek terracotta figurines in AM Agrigento - Wikimedia Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Category:Ancient Greek terracotta figurines in the Sozopol Archaeological Museum - Wikimedia Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Materials and Techniques

• 

  Category:Archaic Greek terracotta figurines in AM Agrigento - Wikimedia Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Category:Ancient Greek terracotta figurines in the Sozopol Archaeological Museum - Wikimedia Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Category:Archaic Greek terracotta figurines in AM Agrigento - Wikimedia Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Category:Archaic Greek terracotta figurines in AM Agrigento - Wikimedia Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Category:Ancient Greek terracotta figurines in the Sozopol Archaeological Museum - Wikimedia Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Archaic Greek terracotta figurines were primarily made using clay sourced from local deposits
  • The clay was refined to remove impurities before being shaped
• Figurines were created using various techniques:
  • Hand modeling the clay
  • Using a potter's wheel to form the basic shape
  • Pressing clay into molds
• Larger figurines were often made in separate parts and then joined together
• After shaping, the clay was allowed to dry slowly to prevent cracking

Firing and Decoration

• Once dry, figurines were fired in kilns at temperatures between 600-800°C
  • Firing permanently hardened the clay through ceramic change
• Following firing, figurines were often embellished with colored slips or paints to add details and lifelike elements
  • Black, red, and white were common colors used
  • Paints were used to depict facial features, hair, clothing patterns, and other decorative elements
• Some figurines were also decorated with added clay elements, such as jewelry, headdresses, or attributes of deities

Significance of Archaic Greek Terracotta Figurines

Religious and Ritual Uses

• Terracotta figurines served important roles in Greek religious practices
  • Frequently used as votive offerings dedicated at sanctuaries and temples of gods and goddesses (Demeter, Persephone, Dionysus)
  • Popular offerings at religious festivals and ceremonies as a means of prayer and communication with the divine
• In funerary contexts, terracotta figurines were placed in graves as gifts for the deceased
  • Intended to provide companionship and protection on the journey to the underworld
  • Sought favor and protection from chthonic deities
• Figurines of humans and animals were used in domestic cult activities
  • Served as offerings at household shrines
  • Played a role in private religious rituals and rites of passage (birth, marriage, death)

Cultural and Artistic Significance

• The subject matter of many figurines provides insight into cultural values and popular forms of entertainment in archaic Greek society
  • Figurines depicting actors, dancers, and musicians reflect the importance of theater and performance
  • Representations of warriors, athletes, and horses showcase aristocratic ideals and pastimes
• As artistic expressions, terracotta figurines showcase the development of archaic Greek aesthetics
  • Reflect changing styles, fashions, and ideals of human form and proportion
  • Demonstrate advancements in craftsmanship and techniques over time
• Terracotta figurines also served as a means of cultural exchange and influence
  • Eastern Greek figurines (Rhodes, Samos) show influences from Near Eastern and Egyptian artistic traditions
  • The spread of figurine styles and types reflects trade networks and cultural interactions across the Greek world

Types and Styles of Archaic Greek Terracotta Figurines

Common Figurine Types

• Standing draped females, often depicted as matronly figures or goddesses (Demeter)
• Seated females, possibly representing Persephone or priestesses
  • Frequently shown seated on elaborate thrones or chairs
• Nude standing males, often with patterned rectangular shields
  • Thought to represent the god Dionysus or his followers
  • Some may depict mortal warriors or athletes
• Equestrian figurines, featuring a male rider on horseback
  • Popular in some regions, may relate to aristocratic pastimes or military pursuits
• Grotesque figurines, such as padded dancers and actors wearing masks and costumes
  • Represent characters from theatrical performances and religious processions

Regional Styles and Influences

• Eastern Greek figurines, particularly those from Rhodes and Samos
  • Influenced by Near Eastern and Egyptian styles
  • Characterized by ornate decoration and stylized facial features
• Boeotian bell-shaped female figurines (mid-6th century BCE)
  • Distinctive conical shape, simple facial features
  • Use of black paint to create linear patterns on dresses
• Corinthian figurines, known for their naturalistic style and attention to detail
  • Realistic proportions, expressive faces, and elaborate hairstyles
  • Often depict mythological scenes or daily life activities
• Laconian figurines, characterized by their angular, geometric forms and patterned decoration
  • Elongated proportions, flat planes, and sharp angles
  • Boldly painted geometric designs on clothing and attributes

Artistic Qualities of Archaic Greek Terracotta Figurines

Notable Examples and Their Characteristics

• The "Lady of Auxerre" (c. 640-630 BCE), from Crete
  • Exemplifies the Daedalic style with her triangular face, large eyes, and stylized hair
  • Demonstrates the use of elaborate patterning on her dress
• The "Mantiklos Apollo" (early 7th century BCE), from Thebes
  • Rare example of a large-scale male figurine
  • Noteworthy for its inscribed base and the elongated proportions of the body
• The "Aphrodite of Camirus" (c. 630-520 BCE), from Rhodes
  • Displays Eastern Greek influence in her facial features, ornate headdress, and rich decoration of her dress
  • Showcases the use of added clay elements to create intricate details
• The "Berlin Goddess" (c. 570 BCE), possibly from Taranto
  • Striking example of a seated female figurine
  • Features an elaborate throne, detailed facial features, and naturalistic rendering of clothing

Evolution of Style and Technique

• Early archaic figurines (7th century BCE) are characterized by geometric forms and stylized features
  • Elongated proportions, angular faces, and patterned clothing
  • Limited use of color, primarily black and red paint
• During the 6th century BCE, figurines begin to display more naturalistic proportions and detailed features
  • Softer facial expressions, more realistic body shapes
  • Increased use of added clay elements for jewelry, hair, and attributes
  • Wider range of colors used in painted decoration
• Late archaic figurines (early 5th century BCE) demonstrate a move towards greater realism and expressiveness
  • More naturalistic poses and gestures, conveying a sense of movement
  • Detailed rendering of facial features, hairstyles, and drapery
  • Experimentation with new techniques, such as the use of molds for consistency and efficiency in production