Phrasikleia kore

Definition

The phrasikleia kore is a significant Archaic Greek statue that exemplifies the korai style, representing young women and serving as a votive offering. This particular sculpture is notable for its detailed representation and intricate drapery, reflecting the evolving naturalism in Archaic art. It was dedicated to the goddess Athena and signifies the importance of funerary practices, as well as the social and religious context of the time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The phrasikleia kore dates back to around 550 BCE and was discovered in a burial site on the outskirts of Athens.
2. This statue is one of the few surviving examples of Archaic korai that provides insights into the fashion and hairstyles of young women in ancient Greece.
3. Phrasikleia's inscription indicates that she was dedicated to Athena, suggesting her role in religious practices and the importance of female figures in worship.
4. The statue showcases advanced sculptural techniques such as detailed clothing and facial expressions, marking a shift towards greater realism in Archaic sculpture.
5. The phrasikleia kore is significant not only as an artistic piece but also as an artifact that reflects societal values regarding beauty, youth, and piety in ancient Greece.

Review Questions

• How does the phrasikleia kore exemplify the transition toward naturalism in Archaic Greek sculpture?
  • The phrasikleia kore embodies the transition towards naturalism through its lifelike proportions, detailed drapery, and realistic facial features. Unlike earlier rigid figures, this statue shows more dynamic poses and a better understanding of human anatomy. These characteristics reflect the artistic advancements during the Archaic period, where sculptors began to focus more on depicting figures that resembled real people rather than abstract forms.
• In what ways does the inscription on the phrasikleia kore enhance our understanding of its cultural significance?
  • The inscription on the phrasikleia kore reveals that it was dedicated to Athena, highlighting its religious importance within the context of Athenian society. This dedication implies that the statue not only served as a decorative object but also played a role in funerary rituals and expressions of devotion. It shows how art was intertwined with beliefs and practices, reinforcing social norms surrounding women's roles in worship and community.
• Evaluate the impact of votive offerings like the phrasikleia kore on our perception of female identity in ancient Greece.
  • Votive offerings such as the phrasikleia kore significantly shape our understanding of female identity in ancient Greece by showcasing women's roles as pious individuals dedicated to divine entities. These statues often reflect societal ideals of beauty, youth, and virtue, positioning women within a framework that emphasizes their importance to religious life. Furthermore, through their representation in art, these figures challenge modern perceptions of women's agency and status in ancient cultures, suggesting they held both spiritual significance and societal value.

Related terms

Kore: A type of ancient Greek statue representing a standing young woman, characterized by its clothed figure and often used as a votive offering.

Naturalism: An artistic style that seeks to represent subjects as they appear in real life, focusing on accurate proportions and realistic details.

Votive Offering: A gift given to a deity or divine figure in fulfillment of a vow or as a form of devotion, often taking the shape of sculptures or other artifacts.