Naxos Sphinx Research Paper

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1. The Naxos Sphinx – Crafted between 570-560 B.C. The Naxos Sphinx, depicted to the left, has the head of a woman, the wings of a griffin, and the body of a lion. Standing just over 7 feet high, the sculpture appears to be much larger; this is mainly due to its placement a top of a 10 meters tall Ionic column. Discovered in a series of broken pieces back in 1861, this marble structure is regarded as both impressive and quite detailed. In ancient Greek times sphinxes were most commonly placed on top of funeral monuments, with their head turned sideways to frighten strangers away, this one, however, was sculpted to look straight ahead, and stood below the Apollo Temple terrace at Delphi. This monument served as a guardian within the sanctuary, ensuring no evil entered the temples sacred grounds. Not only does this artifact show us that ancient Greeks were highly influenced by other cultures, Egyptians especially, but it also serves as an example of how strongly the Greeks believed in protecting their gods & goddesses from any impurities, and bestow, instead, peace, good-fortune, and overall safety onto sacred land.

2. The Artemision Bronze – This larger than life bronze statue was recovered from the sea off of Cape Artemision in 1926, and later excavated 2 years later. The Artemision Bronze dates back to approximately 460 BCE, and holds much controversy. It is debated whether or not this artistic masterpiece represents Zeus or Poseidon, the god of the ocean because it is quite unclear if the figure was grasping a thunderbolt, for Zeus, or a trident, for Poseidon. Although there is no exact proof to who this sculpture embodies, most archaeologists believe it to be a depiction of Zeus. This artifact gives a true sense of how impor...

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...ows humans nowadays to analyze Greek art techniques, materials, and of course give insight into the lives of those who have passed on.

10. Venus de Milo or Aphrodite of Melos – This statue erected in honour of the Greek Goddess of beauty, Aphrodite, was carved by Greek artist Alexandros around 150 BC and later found on the Aegean island of Melos on April 8th, 1820. The statue is made completely of marble and is about 203 cm high; making her physique appear larger than life. Although the statue is not 100% intact, having lost the two arms throughout history, the Venus de Milo is still regarded as one of the most famous and beautiful Ancient Greek statues that showcases true feminine beauty. Aphrodite inspired love and admiration in all who saw her. Ultimately without Aphrodite the most fundamental human need that must be met in order for survival would not exist.

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