Lely VenusStock Photosfrom FenlioQ/Shutterstock
Hellenistic sculpture is one of art history’s most prized practices.
What was the Hellenistic Period?
TheHellenistic periodwas an era in Ancient Greece that lasted from 323 BCE to 31 CE.
“Lely Venus”Stock Photosfrom FenlioQ/Shutterstock
This changed in 500 BCE, however, when theClassical periodemerged.
Consequently, they shifted their focus fromkourosandkorefigures to a diverse and divine cast of characters from mythology.
This approach was taken a step further in 323 BCE.
“The Winged Victory of Samothrace,” 190 BCE (Stock Photosfrom jackbolla/Shutterstock)
At this time, sculptors adapted Classical techniques to render realistic figures.
This trend lasted for nearly 200 years and culminated in what is now known as the Hellenistic period.
Realistic Anatomy
This preoccupation with movement also informed the Hellenistic focus on anatomy.
“Laocoon and His Sons,” first century BCE (Stock Photosfrom Enrique Moya/Shutterstock)
Rather than posed in unrealistically erect positions, figures like theVenus de Milowere rendered in an asymmetrical stance.
Alexandros of Antioch, “Venus de Milo,” 101 BCE(Stock Photosfrom Tutti Frutti/Shutterstock)
Boethos of Chalcedon, “Boy with Goose,” 2nd century BCE ((Stock Photosfrom time4studio/Shutterstock)
Detail of “The Winged Victory of Samothrace,” 190 BCE (Stock Photosfrom muratart /Shutterstock)
