Painted Vs. Unpainted Greek art

            Johann Joachim Winckelmann an 18^th century archaeologist thought that Greek art represents “good taste” in art because of it’s simple white marble exterior. Many people would be surprised to know that many Greek statues were actually painted.

            I think that Winckelmann had a huge affect on how Greek art is perceived. Winckelmann encouraged the pure simplicity of unpainted statues. He once wrote, “Color ought to have a minor consideration in the role of beauty.”  If Winckelmann had not promoted his ideals about Greek art, maybe art today would be different. I’m sure it would not be a drastic change, but art would be affected. Perhaps statues like the Abraham Lincoln memorial statue would be painted rather then having a simple white marble exterior. Not only did Greek artists paint their statues they also painted their architectures. If Winckelmann never encouraged a pure simple taste in art, it is possible that the White House would have been painted with color. Although, I am unsure if Winckelmann’s ideals would have had affect in other kinds of art expect for statues and architectures. It is quiet interesting to think of all the possible changes art would have if Winckelmann had not promoted the white marble.

            After learning about Greek art, my perception of it has changed rather drastically. I always thought that the sculptures are very amazing with all the naturalistic details in the carving. Although, I am not very fond of the plain white marble, I think it is boring and uninteresting. Can you imagine if all Greek art was only white? The cities would have been very dull. When I saw the reconstruction of the Archer from the from the west pediment of the Temple of Aphaia, I was truly amazed by the liveliness of the painted statue. The unpainted statues definitely have a naturalistic perception but the painted statues come to life. This is because in real life we see everything in color, without color it lacks the true essence of life. Now imagine the painted version of the cities, they are full of energy and life. The unpainted Peplos Kore is impressive with the detailing, but the painted reconstructions give the statue a sense of a real woman. Her dress has elaborate details, her lips are red and full, the recreations give us an idea of what color her hair could have been. One can not have the same perception of the unpainted statues verses the painted ones. Not only do the painted statues appear more lively, so does the painted architecture. The Treasury of the Siphnians has painted details for example the Ionic frieze near the top of the structure. This structure would not have caught my attention without these painted details.  I feel that looking at these artworks is like watching a black and white film in color for the first time, it’s the same film yet you have a completely different viewing of it making it exciting and new.

            Winckelmann, an 18^th century archeologist, changed the way Greek art was supposed to be viewed. Greek artists painted their statues because they wanted them to appear naturalistic. Instead Winckelmann promoted the idea that Greeks did not paint their statues so that they appear naturalistic, pure and simple with “good taste.”