Pergamon Altar Frieze

Definition

The Pergamon Altar Frieze is a monumental sculptural decoration that adorned the altar of Zeus at Pergamon, showcasing a high-relief depiction of the Gigantomachy, the mythical battle between the gods and giants. This remarkable work exemplifies Hellenistic influences on Late Classical sculpture through its dramatic expression, intricate details, and dynamic composition that capture intense emotion and movement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Pergamon Altar was constructed during the reign of King Eumenes II in the second century B.C., showcasing the political power and cultural achievements of the Attalid dynasty.
2. The frieze is approximately 370 feet long and consists of over 100 figures, illustrating the dramatic conflict in detailed and expressive poses.
3. The stylistic elements of the frieze reflect a shift towards more emotional expression and realism compared to earlier classical works, showcasing a deeper understanding of human anatomy and movement.
4. The Pergamon Altar Frieze served not only as an artistic masterpiece but also as a political statement, reinforcing the power of the Attalids through its references to Greek mythology.
5. Today, fragments of the Pergamon Altar Frieze can be found in various museums, with significant portions housed in the Pergamon Museum in Berlin.

Review Questions

• How does the Pergamon Altar Frieze reflect Hellenistic influences on Late Classical sculpture?
  • The Pergamon Altar Frieze embodies Hellenistic influences through its dynamic composition and emotional intensity, which diverge from the more restrained styles of earlier periods. The intricate details in the figures and their expressions showcase a sophisticated understanding of human emotion and anatomy. This dramatic depiction of the Gigantomachy illustrates how Hellenistic artists aimed to engage viewers by emphasizing movement and narrative complexity.
• Discuss the significance of the Gigantomachy theme depicted in the Pergamon Altar Frieze within its historical context.
  • The Gigantomachy theme in the Pergamon Altar Frieze represents a crucial allegory for civilization's triumph over chaos and barbarism, aligning with the political ambitions of the Attalid dynasty. By showcasing this mythological battle, the Attalids sought to assert their legitimacy and divine favor among their subjects. The connection to Greek mythology also reinforced cultural identity during a period marked by competition with other powers, emphasizing the significance of heritage and tradition in consolidating authority.
• Evaluate how the artistic techniques used in the Pergamon Altar Frieze influenced later Roman art.
  • The artistic techniques employed in the Pergamon Altar Frieze, such as high relief sculpture, dramatic foreshortening, and intense emotional expression set a precedent for Roman art. These elements contributed to a narrative style that later Roman artists adopted and adapted to convey their own themes. The emphasis on realism and dynamism influenced monumental works like triumphal arches and sarcophagi, demonstrating how Hellenistic artistry shaped subsequent artistic developments throughout the Roman Empire.

Related terms

Hellenistic Art: A style of art that flourished from the death of Alexander the Great in 323 B.C. until the Roman conquest of Greece, characterized by increased realism and emotional expression.

Gigantomachy: The mythological battle between the Olympian gods and the Giants, symbolizing the struggle between civilization and barbarism, often depicted in ancient Greek art.

Athena Parthenos: A famous statue of Athena created by Phidias, representing the goddess as a symbol of wisdom and war, reflecting similar themes found in Hellenistic sculpture.