Greek Sculpture: The Classical Period, a Handbook (World of Art)

For most people there is no more satisfying expression of Greek art than its sculpture. It was the first, the only ancient art to break free from conceptual conventions for representing men and animals, and to explore consciously how art might imitate or even improve upon it. The first stages of this discovery, from the semi-abstract beginnings in the eighth century BC to the more representational art of the early fifth century, are explored and illustrated in this handbook. 481 illus. "Authoritative and brilliantly illustrated...written in a lively fashion." --The Daily Telegraph "As a succinct statement of the evidence, it could not be bettered." --History Today "An extremely comprehensive and informative volume." --The Greek Gazette "The new edition is, if possible, even better than its predecessors." --Library Journal This sequel to Sir John Boardman's widely acclaimed handbooks on Greek sculpture of the Archaic and Classical periods brings the story down through the fourth century BC to the days of Alexander the Great. The author discusses the innovations of the period - the female nude and portraiture, many important monuments including the Mausoleum at Halikarnassos, and several of the great names such as Praxiteles and Lysippus who were lionised by later generations. Complementing the other handbooks this volume also presents Greek sculpture made in the colonies of Italy and Sicily from the Archaic period onwards, as well as that made for eastern, non-Greek rulers. A final section considers the role of Greek sculpture in moulding Western taste to the present day. Looks at the development of sculptures, reliefs, and friezes in fifth century B.C. Greece and assesses this period's importance in art history.