Chryselephantine

Definition

Chryselephantine refers to a sculptural technique used in ancient Greek art that combines gold (chryso) and ivory (elephantine) to create lifelike representations. This luxurious medium was particularly prominent in monumental sculptures, showcasing the skill and artistry of Greek sculptors while symbolizing divine or royal attributes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chryselephantine sculptures were often used for cult images in temples, such as the famous statue of Athena Parthenos created by Phidias for the Parthenon.
2. The combination of gold and ivory allowed for detailed textures and rich colors, enhancing the visual impact and conveying a sense of opulence.
3. Due to the materials' value, chryselephantine works were often seen as symbols of power and divinity, reinforcing the status of deities and rulers.
4. Phidias is one of the most well-known sculptors associated with this technique, with his work influencing subsequent generations of artists in ancient Greece.
5. The technique fell out of favor due to the high cost of materials and changing artistic trends, leading to a preference for marble and bronze in later periods.

Review Questions

• How does the chryselephantine technique reflect the values and beliefs of ancient Greek society?
  • The chryselephantine technique reflects the ancient Greeks' values of beauty, luxury, and reverence for the divine. By using precious materials like gold and ivory, artists created sculptures that were not only visually stunning but also symbolized power and immortality. The prominence of these works in temples indicates how integral they were to religious practices and civic pride, reinforcing the connection between artistry and spiritual devotion.
• In what ways did Phidias's use of chryselephantine material influence later Greek sculpture?
  • Phidias's use of chryselephantine material set a standard for monumental sculpture in ancient Greece, showcasing how the blend of gold and ivory could elevate artistic expression. His iconic works inspired other sculptors to adopt similar techniques, blending realism with luxurious detail. This influence persisted through the Hellenistic period as artists sought to capture both grandeur and emotional depth in their creations.
• Evaluate the significance of chryselephantine sculptures in understanding the political and religious landscape of ancient Greece.
  • Chryselephantine sculptures are significant for understanding the political and religious landscape of ancient Greece as they served as focal points for worship and civic identity. These lavish works, often depicting gods or heroic figures, embodied both religious devotion and state power. The resources devoted to creating such monumental art indicate how politics intertwined with religion, as city-states would commission grand sculptures to express their piety and reinforce their status among peers.

Related terms

Acropolis:

An ancient citadel located on a high rocky outcrop above the city of Athens, known for its monumental structures including the Parthenon.

Gold Leaf: Thin sheets of gold applied to surfaces to create a rich, luminous effect, often used in combination with other materials in ancient art.

Sculpture in the Round: A three-dimensional sculpture that is meant to be viewed from all angles, distinct from relief sculptures that are attached to a background.