Greek Artifacts > Protogeometric Style Art

Protogeometric Style Art

Background

Protogeometric art refers to a style of Greek art and pottery that emerged in the late 11th century BCE and flourished during the 10th century BCE, marking the transition between the preceding Dark Age (or Greek Dark Ages) and the subsequent Geometric period. Protogeometric art is characterized by its geometric motifs, abstract designs, and the use of a limited color palette, typically consisting of black and reddish-brown on a light background. Here are some key features and aspects of Protogeometric art:

Characteristics of Protogeometric Art

1. Geometric Patterns: Protogeometric art is known for its emphasis on geometric shapes and patterns, including:

   • Horizontal Bands: Vessels are often divided into horizontal bands or zones, each decorated with geometric motifs such as zigzags, meanders, triangles, and concentric circles.
   • Geometric Shapes: Simple geometric shapes, such as circles, squares, diamonds, and crosshatched triangles, are common decorative elements in Protogeometric pottery.

2. Abstract Designs: Protogeometric art is characterized by abstract and stylized representations rather than naturalistic or figurative motifs. The emphasis is on geometric abstraction and pattern repetition.

3. Limited Color Palette: The color palette used in Protogeometric pottery is typically restricted to black and reddish-brown slip (a liquid clay mixture), applied to a light-colored ceramic background. This limited palette contributes to the stark and graphic quality of Protogeometric designs.

4. Pottery Shapes: Protogeometric pottery includes a variety of vessel shapes, such as:

   • Kraters: Large, bowl-shaped vessels used for mixing wine and water during symposia (social gatherings).
   • Amphorae: Tall, narrow-necked jars used for storing and transporting liquids such as wine, oil, or water.
   • Kylikes: Shallow drinking cups with horizontal handles, often decorated with geometric designs on the interior and exterior.

5. Funerary Context: Many examples of Protogeometric pottery have been found in funerary contexts, particularly as grave goods in burial sites. These vessels were often used as offerings or as containers for the ashes of the deceased.

Cultural Context and Significance

1. Transition Period: Protogeometric art marks a transitional phase between the preceding Dark Age and the subsequent Geometric period in Greek history. It reflects cultural continuity and the gradual reemergence of artistic expression following the collapse of Mycenaean civilization.

2. Symbolism and Meaning: The geometric motifs and abstract designs found in Protogeometric art may have held symbolic or ritualistic significance, possibly related to religious beliefs, social identity, or funerary practices.

3. Technological Innovation: Protogeometric pottery demonstrates advancements in ceramic technology, including improvements in kiln firing techniques, the use of slip decoration, and the development of more refined ceramic forms.

4. Artistic Evolution: The geometric motifs and decorative schemes of Protogeometric art laid the groundwork for the elaborate geometric patterns and narrative scenes that characterize later styles of Greek pottery, such as the Geometric and Orientalizing periods.

Examples and Archaeological Discoveries

1. Protogeometric Amphorae: Large, decorated amphorae have been found in burial sites across Greece, particularly in regions such as Attica, Boeotia, and the Cyclades.

2. Protogeometric Kraters: Kraters decorated with geometric designs have been unearthed in various archaeological contexts, providing valuable insights into Protogeometric artistic techniques and stylistic conventions.

3. Funerary Contexts: Many examples of Protogeometric pottery have been discovered in graves and tombs, often accompanied by other grave goods such as jewelry, weapons, and figurines.

Conclusion

Protogeometric art represents an important phase in the development of Greek artistic expression and ceramic production. Characterized by its geometric patterns, abstract designs, and limited color palette, Protogeometric pottery reflects the cultural, technological, and artistic innovations of the late Bronze Age and early Iron Age in Greece. As a transitional style, Protogeometric art laid the foundation for the elaborate artistic achievements of later Greek civilizations, making it a crucial period in the evolution of Greek art and culture.

Sources

Cook, R.M., Greek Art, Penguin, 1986 (reprint of 1972), ISBN 0140218661

Murray, R. L. The Protogeometric Style: the first Greek style (1975).

Eiteljorg, H., "The fast wheel, the multiple brush compass and Athens as home of the Protogeometric style" American Journal of Archaeology (AJA) 84 (1980) pp. 445–452.

Artifacts