Pergamon Altar Frieze

Definition

The Pergamon Altar Frieze is an elaborate sculptural relief that adorned the altar of Zeus located in the ancient city of Pergamon, dating back to the 2nd century BCE. This monumental work is celebrated for its dynamic portrayal of the battle between the gods and giants, reflecting the Hellenistic emphasis on dramatic expression and intricate detail in art.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Pergamon Altar Frieze measures approximately 113 meters in length and features over 100 figures, illustrating the battle between the Olympian gods and giants in intricate detail.
2. This frieze showcases the use of deep undercutting and dramatic poses, which are hallmark features of Hellenistic art, capturing intense emotions and movement.
3. The frieze is believed to have been commissioned by King Eumenes II of Pergamon to commemorate his victories and to assert the power of his reign through divine imagery.
4. The artwork was originally part of a grand altar complex that included a staircase leading up to it, enhancing its visual impact as visitors approached from below.
5. Today, much of the frieze is housed in the Pergamon Museum in Berlin, where it has been a significant influence on Western art and architecture.

Review Questions

• How does the Pergamon Altar Frieze exemplify the characteristics of Hellenistic art?
  • The Pergamon Altar Frieze exemplifies Hellenistic art through its dynamic compositions and realistic portrayals of figures engaged in battle. The intense emotions conveyed by the sculpted figures, combined with dramatic poses and deep undercutting techniques, highlight the period's focus on individual expression and storytelling. This artistic approach marks a departure from earlier classical styles, showcasing a more visceral and captivating representation of mythological narratives.
• Discuss the historical significance of the Pergamon Altar and its frieze in relation to the political context of its time.
  • The Pergamon Altar and its frieze hold significant historical importance as they reflect both artistic innovation and political ambition during the reign of King Eumenes II. By commissioning this grand work, Eumenes sought to reinforce his power and legitimacy by aligning himself with the divine through imagery that depicted victory over chaos. The altar served not only as a religious site but also as a political statement, demonstrating Pergamon's cultural prominence within the Hellenistic world.
• Evaluate the influence of the Pergamon Altar Frieze on later artistic movements and its relevance in contemporary discussions about representation in art.
  • The Pergamon Altar Frieze has had a lasting influence on various artistic movements, particularly during the Renaissance and Neoclassical periods when artists looked back to classical antiquity for inspiration. Its dramatic narrative style and emotional depth have inspired countless works that seek to evoke similar responses. In contemporary discussions about representation in art, the frieze prompts reflection on how power dynamics are portrayed through visual media, encouraging artists today to consider historical narratives while addressing modern themes of conflict, identity, and mythology.

Related terms

Hellenistic Art: A style of art that emerged after the death of Alexander the Great, characterized by increased realism, emotional expression, and a focus on individualism.

Sculptural Relief: A technique in sculpture where figures project from a flat background, creating a three-dimensional effect that enhances storytelling.

Altar of Zeus: A monumental altar built in honor of Zeus, serving as a central feature of the Pergamon Acropolis and showcasing the grandeur of Hellenistic architecture and art.