Chryselephantine statue

Definition

A chryselephantine statue is a sculptural technique that combines gold and ivory to create lavish, ornate figures. These statues were often used in ancient Greek temples to represent deities and were typically larger than life, emphasizing the grandeur of the gods they depicted. This technique reflects the wealth and artistic skill of the time, with the materials signifying both opulence and reverence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The most famous example of a chryselephantine statue is Phidias's Athena Parthenos, which stood in the Parthenon and was approximately 38 feet tall.
2. Chryselephantine statues were typically housed in temples, serving as focal points for worship and demonstrating the wealth of the city-state that commissioned them.
3. The use of ivory in these statues symbolized purity and divinity, while gold represented wealth and power, creating a stunning visual impact.
4. Many original chryselephantine statues have not survived due to their materials being repurposed or destroyed; however, historical texts and Roman copies help us understand their significance.
5. The technique was not only limited to religious sculptures but also influenced other artistic forms, including portraiture and decorative arts in ancient Greece.

Review Questions

• How did the use of materials like gold and ivory in chryselephantine statues reflect the cultural values of ancient Greece?
  • The combination of gold and ivory in chryselephantine statues highlighted ancient Greece's cultural values of wealth, power, and divinity. Gold was seen as a symbol of status and opulence, while ivory represented purity and beauty. Together, these materials not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the statues but also reinforced the reverence towards the deities they represented, showcasing the artistic skill and resources available to Greek city-states.
• Discuss the significance of Phidias's contributions to chryselephantine sculpture and its impact on ancient Greek architecture.
  • Phidias was a key figure in advancing chryselephantine sculpture, particularly with his monumental works like the Athena Parthenos. His mastery in blending gold and ivory created powerful images that enhanced the grandeur of Greek architecture, especially in temples like the Parthenon. The incorporation of such statues within architectural contexts not only elevated their aesthetic value but also served as central elements in religious practices, profoundly influencing subsequent artistic traditions.
• Evaluate how chryselephantine statues shaped religious practices and societal structures within ancient Greek culture.
  • Chryselephantine statues significantly shaped religious practices by serving as focal points for worship and offerings within temples. Their grandeur not only drew worshippers but also underscored the importance of deities in everyday life, linking religious devotion to civic pride. Societally, these statues represented the wealth and power dynamics of city-states; those who could afford such masterpieces showcased their status through religious architecture, thereby intertwining art with social hierarchy and communal identity.

Related terms

Phidias:

An ancient Greek sculptor, known for creating the massive chryselephantine statue of Zeus at Olympia and the Athena Parthenos housed in the Parthenon.

Hellenistic art: A style of art that emerged after the death of Alexander the Great, characterized by dramatic expressions and a focus on realism, influencing the evolution of chryselephantine sculptures.

Gold leaf: A thin layer of gold applied to surfaces, often used alongside ivory in decorative art to enhance the luxurious appearance of sculptures.