Ancient Greek Vases

Ancient Greek Pots Tell A Story

Greek potters were constantly changing the shape of their famous vases and pots. In ancient Greece, it was not enough to create something that was beautiful. It also had to be comfortable. If the vase, pot, or pitcher had a handle, that handle had to be easy to hold and fit comfortably into the grip of your hand. The Greeks considered themselves scientists as well as artists. Everything had to be perfectly proportioned.

The designs on their pottery told a story. Some told stories of daily life. Others told stories of wars and heroes. All designs, whatever they were, had to represent something that people would find pleasing. Geometric designs had to be familiar, a design perhaps that could be found in a temple or a fabric. The colors were soothing and comfortable.

Most Greeks were cremated and buried in pots. Even though the pots were to be buried, they still had to be perfect. The ancient Greeks were perfectionists.

Archaeologists have discovered a great many ancient Greek pieces of pottery. Between household vases and funeral pots, archaeologists have been able to piece together a great deal of knowledge about daily life in ancient Greece.

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Art & Architecture