Ancient Art Unit 2 DB - Research Paper Example

Greek and Roman Art al Affiliation Greek and Roman Art The Romans vs. the Greeks, this feud was one greatly appreciated in history as it birthed some of the best contemporary art styles and pieces known today. Both the two cultures had their own unique forms of art, but it would be unwise to label their art as completely independent from each other. This discourse compares and contrasts the Doryphoros (Polykleitos, 450 BCE) and the Colosseum (72–80 CE) works of art. A piece of ancient Greek art that has left its mark in history is the Doryphoros or “Spear Bearer” (Coulson & Freiert, 1987).

This is a Roman copy of a bronze original by Polykleitos, done in 440 B.C. This statue was originally sculpted and cast to illustrate a treatise (now lost) written by Polykleitos called the Kanon. A piece of Roman art that is also quite impactive is the Colosseum (Knapp & Lehmberg, 2000). Set in ancient Rome, this art was a symbol of Roman dominance and rule. The two art pieces are quite similar in some various aspects. The similarity is found in context, blend and style, and is what makes them some unique pieces (Leonardo & Otinno, 1969).

They are however also different in form. One is abstract while the other is representational. The Doryphoros is a two dimensional work of art that achieves a balance of straight and bent, tense and relaxed form that marks it as an ideal example of contrapposto piece (Ritcher, 1970). The Colosseum however is a three dimensional work of art, falls under the representational category and cannot be labeled as a contrapposto piece. In conclusion, the Doryphoros is symbolic to the Greek culture and represents proportionality and completeness in structure and design.

The Colosseum was a symbol of Roman power and rule. Both pieces have historical significance as they signify an important period of time in both cultures. Reference ListCoulson, W. D. E., & Freiert, P. N. (1987). Greek and Roman art, architecture, and archaeology: An annotated bibliography. New York: Garland.Knapp, R., & Lehmberg, J. (2000). Greek & Roman art. Worcester, Mass: Davis Publications.Leonardo, , &Della C. A. Ottino (1969). The Complete Paintings of Art. New York: Harry N. Abrams.Richter, G. M. A. (1970). Perspective in Greek and Roman art.

London: Phaidon.