Severe style

Definition

Severe style refers to an artistic approach in ancient Greek sculpture and pottery that emerged in the early Classical period, characterized by a shift towards greater realism and naturalism while still maintaining idealized forms. This style is marked by a sense of restraint, simplicity, and harmony, representing a transition from the more stylized and decorative elements of the Archaic period to a more lifelike representation of human figures and expressions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The severe style emerged around 480 BCE, marking a significant shift in Greek art as it began to move away from the rigid forms of the Archaic style.
2. Key features of the severe style include realistic proportions, softer facial expressions, and a more naturalistic rendering of drapery on clothing.
3. This artistic movement was heavily influenced by the sociopolitical changes in Athens after the Persian Wars, which fostered a new cultural confidence.
4. Famous works from this period include sculptures like the 'Kritios Boy' and works by artists such as Phidias, who exemplified the severe style's emphasis on balance and proportion.
5. The severe style laid the groundwork for the full Classical style that followed, which continued to refine realism and ideal beauty in art.

Review Questions

• How does the severe style reflect the cultural changes occurring in Athens during its emergence?
  • The severe style reflects cultural changes in Athens post-Persian Wars by showcasing a newfound confidence in Greek identity and artistry. Artists began to move away from the rigid forms of the Archaic period, embracing realism and naturalism that represented a more human-centric worldview. This shift can be seen as a response to both social and political dynamics in Athens that prioritized democracy and individual expression.
• In what ways does the severe style differ from the previous Archaic style in terms of artistic techniques and representation?
  • The severe style differs from the Archaic style primarily in its approach to human figures and emotions. While Archaic sculptures often featured stiff poses and exaggerated facial expressions, the severe style introduced realistic proportions and more subdued expressions. Techniques such as contrapposto were employed to create a sense of movement and life, highlighting a shift toward greater naturalism that became characteristic of Classical Greek art.
• Evaluate the impact of key artists and works associated with the severe style on later developments in Greek art.
  • Key artists like Phidias had a lasting impact on later Greek art through their innovative approaches in the severe style. Works such as the 'Kritios Boy' set new standards for realism and proportion that influenced subsequent generations. This evolution not only advanced aesthetic standards but also shaped philosophical concepts about beauty and humanity that resonated throughout Classical art, paving the way for even more refined styles in later periods.

Related terms

Classical Period: The Classical Period in ancient Greece, roughly spanning the 5th to 4th centuries BCE, is known for its advancements in art, philosophy, and democracy, with a focus on humanism and the idealization of the human form.

Kore: A type of freestanding statue depicting a young woman in ancient Greece, often characterized by their detailed clothing and frontal pose, which exemplify the transition from the Archaic to the Severe style.

Contrapposto: A sculptural technique used to depict a human figure standing with most of its weight on one foot, creating a sense of dynamism and naturalism that became prominent during the Severe style.