Phrasikleia Kore

Definition

The Phrasikleia Kore is a notable example of a monumental statue from the Archaic period of ancient Greece, specifically dating to around 550 BCE. This statue represents a young woman, or kore, who is believed to have been a grave marker for a girl named Phrasikleia. It highlights important artistic features of Archaic sculpture, such as the use of stiff postures and intricate drapery, reflecting both the evolving techniques in sculpture and the cultural significance of funerary practices in this era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Phrasikleia Kore was discovered in 1972 in a burial site near Athens, revealing insights into Archaic funerary practices.
2. The statue stands approximately 1.6 meters tall and is made from marble, showcasing the high level of craftsmanship during the Archaic period.
3. Phrasikleia's attire features detailed drapery with intricate folds, highlighting advancements in sculptural techniques and artistic expression.
4. The inscription on the base of the statue indicates that Phrasikleia died unmarried and serves as a testament to the social customs regarding women in ancient Greece.
5. This kore reflects not only individual identity but also broader themes of memory and commemoration within Greek society.

Review Questions

• What artistic characteristics of the Phrasikleia Kore reflect the style and techniques typical of Archaic Greek sculpture?
  • The Phrasikleia Kore showcases several key characteristics typical of Archaic Greek sculpture, such as its rigid stance and intricate drapery. The figure's frontal pose is emblematic of the kore style, while the detailed folds in her clothing demonstrate the evolving techniques in marble carving. The careful attention to proportions and facial features also highlight the shift towards more naturalistic representations seen in later periods.
• Discuss the cultural significance of grave markers like the Phrasikleia Kore in understanding Archaic Greek society and funerary customs.
  • Grave markers like the Phrasikleia Kore provide vital insights into Archaic Greek society and its funerary customs. These statues served not only as memorials for the deceased but also as reflections of social status, identity, and gender roles within the community. The emphasis on an unmarried woman's memory through such a monument indicates societal values surrounding marriage and female representation at that time.
• Evaluate how the discovery and study of the Phrasikleia Kore contribute to our understanding of artistic developments and cultural practices in early Greece.
  • The discovery and study of the Phrasikleia Kore have greatly enriched our understanding of artistic developments and cultural practices in early Greece by illustrating the transition towards more sophisticated sculptural techniques. This kore exemplifies both the technical skill required for intricate marble work and the thematic depth found in funerary art. Analyzing its inscription further reveals societal attitudes towards mortality, gender roles, and commemorative practices during the Archaic period, thus linking artistry with cultural identity.

Related terms

Kore: A type of ancient Greek statue depicting a young woman, often characterized by a formal pose and elaborate clothing, serving various functions including votive offerings and grave markers.

Kouros: A statue representing a young male figure from the Archaic period, typically depicted in a frontal stance with one foot forward, symbolizing youth and athleticism.

Polychromy: The practice of decorating sculpture or architectural elements in multiple colors, which was prevalent in ancient Greek art and added vibrancy to figures like the Phrasikleia Kore.