Phidias

Definition

Phidias was a renowned ancient Greek sculptor and architect, widely regarded as one of the greatest artists of classical antiquity. He is best known for his monumental sculptures, particularly those that adorned the Parthenon in Athens, which exemplify the ideals of beauty and harmony in classical art and architecture. Phidias' work not only defined the artistic standards of his time but also had a profound influence on the development of sculpture and craftsmanship in subsequent periods.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Phidias is credited with creating the massive statue of Athena Parthenos, which stood in the Parthenon and was considered one of his greatest achievements.
2. He was also responsible for sculpting the frieze and other decorative elements of the Parthenon, showcasing his mastery of relief work.
3. Phidias employed a technique called chryselephantine, using gold and ivory to create statues that had both opulence and lifelike qualities.
4. His influence extended beyond his lifetime; later artists looked to Phidias as a standard for achieving ideal beauty in their own works.
5. Phidias faced political issues during his life, including accusations of impiety related to his work on religious monuments, which reflect the intertwining of art and politics in ancient Greece.

Review Questions

• How did Phidias' work exemplify the principles of Classical Idealism in Greek art?
  • Phidias' work is a prime example of Classical Idealism through his focus on proportion, harmony, and lifelike representation. His sculptures, especially those on the Parthenon, demonstrate a keen understanding of human anatomy and beauty. By adhering to these principles, Phidias elevated Greek sculpture to new heights, setting a standard for future artists to aspire to in their pursuit of beauty.
• Discuss the significance of the Parthenon in relation to Phidias' contributions to classical art and architecture.
  • The Parthenon serves as a critical example of Phidias' contributions to classical art and architecture. As the chief sculptor for this iconic temple, he created not only the grand statue of Athena Parthenos but also designed intricate friezes and pediments that adorned the structure. These works are celebrated for their artistic excellence and have become symbols of ancient Greek culture, showcasing Phidias' ability to blend architectural design with sculpture seamlessly.
• Evaluate Phidias' impact on later artistic movements and how his techniques influenced subsequent generations of sculptors.
  • Phidias' impact on later artistic movements is profound, as he set a benchmark for ideal beauty and technical skill that echoed through time. His techniques, particularly chryselephantine sculpture, were emulated by later artists who sought to capture similar grandeur in their own works. By inspiring the Renaissance and Neoclassicism movements, Phidias' legacy contributed to a continuous evolution in sculpture, highlighting how his vision shaped artistic expression long after his death.

Related terms

Parthenon:

A former temple on the Athenian Acropolis dedicated to the goddess Athena, known for its architectural beauty and sculptural decorations by Phidias.

Classical Idealism: An artistic philosophy emphasizing proportion, balance, and beauty based on the ideals of ancient Greek art, strongly reflected in Phidias' work.

Chryselephantine: A term describing a technique of sculpture using gold and ivory, notably used by Phidias in creating the statue of Athena for the Parthenon.