Anonymous
A Closer Look
Artworks made during a particular time and place often look similar to one another. We call them "stylized." Many artworks from the Archaic Period of ancient Greece resemble Peplos Kore. They stand staring right at you with one foot in front of the other, and they have a mysterious little smile. Try making a series of sculptures in which each artwork is slightly different yet they all look related. Decide on a style that is your very own.
About the Sculpture
"Kore" means girl in ancient Greek. This statue is called the Peplos Korebecause she is wearing a dress called a "peplos." Originally it was probably painted bright red with green trim. In her left hand, which is missing, she would have held an offering to the goddess Athena. Greece and Egypt were close trading partners. Compare the Peplos Kore to an Egyptian statue to see how they are alike.
About the Artist
The artist who made the Peplos Kore is unknown, or anonymous. He carved the four-foot high statue out of marble and placed it in the Acropolis in Athens, Greece. The artist painted Peplos Kore bright colors, adorned her with jewelry and put a little umbrella on her head to protect her from birds and rain.
Write About It
- Make a list of what you see.
- How did the artist use the elements and principles of design?
- What do you think the sculpture means? How does it make you feel?
- Select two sculptures to compare & contrast.
