Chryselephantine sculpture

Definition

Chryselephantine sculpture refers to a type of ancient Greek statue made using gold (chrysos) and ivory (elephas) to create a luxurious and striking appearance. This technique was especially prominent in the creation of monumental figures in temples, serving both religious and artistic purposes. The intricate craftsmanship involved in chryselephantine works exemplified the wealth and cultural values of ancient Greek society, showcasing their advances in artistic development and temple decoration.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chryselephantine sculptures were often large-scale works, such as the famous statue of Athena Parthenos created by Phidias for the Parthenon in Athens.
2. The combination of gold and ivory not only showcased the skill of the sculptor but also symbolized the divine nature of the figures, enhancing their presence within sacred spaces.
3. While many original chryselephantine sculptures have not survived, descriptions and Roman copies give insight into their impressive scale and intricate details.
4. This technique reflected the wealth of city-states like Athens during the classical period, as they were able to afford such extravagant materials for their public monuments.
5. Chryselephantine sculptures played a significant role in temple decoration, serving as focal points for worship and reinforcing the religious significance of these structures.

Review Questions

• How did chryselephantine sculptures influence Greek artistic development?
  • Chryselephantine sculptures significantly influenced Greek artistic development by pushing boundaries in terms of materials and techniques used in sculpture. The use of gold and ivory allowed artists to create more realistic and visually stunning figures that conveyed a sense of divinity. This innovation showcased not just artistic skill but also the social status of the city-states that commissioned such works, driving further advancements in sculpture as artists sought to replicate this luxurious style.
• Discuss the role of chryselephantine sculptures in temple decoration and their impact on religious practices in ancient Greece.
  • Chryselephantine sculptures played a pivotal role in temple decoration by serving as central cult statues that embodied the deities worshipped within these sacred spaces. Their grand scale and opulent materials elevated the religious experience for worshippers, making them feel closer to the divine. The presence of these striking statues often attracted pilgrims and visitors, reinforcing the temple's status as a key site for religious practice and community identity.
• Evaluate how chryselephantine sculpture represents both the artistic and economic priorities of ancient Greek society.
  • Chryselephantine sculpture exemplifies how artistic expression was intertwined with the economic priorities of ancient Greek society. The ability to commission such lavish works indicated a city's wealth and influence, particularly during periods like the Classical era when Athens flourished economically. By investing in these monumental pieces, city-states demonstrated not only their devotion to their gods but also their cultural sophistication, as these sculptures became symbols of civic pride and artistic achievement that reinforced social hierarchies.

Related terms

Cult statue: A statue that is created for worship and is often housed within a temple, representing a deity or important religious figure.

Gold leaf: Thin sheets of gold applied to surfaces for decorative purposes, commonly used in ancient art to enhance the visual appeal of sculptures and paintings.

Hellenistic period: The period following the conquests of Alexander the Great, characterized by the spread of Greek culture and artistic styles throughout the Mediterranean and Near East.