You will take a virtual field trip to the Greek and Roman wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
• Go to https://www.metmuseum.org/Links to an external site..
• Click on the search icon, and type Greek and Roman Art
• Choose one work of art from the museum (Terracotta Bell-Krater) to compare and contrast to Equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius (Picture Below)
• Produce a two-page reflection assignment (see the description below).
In the opening paragraph, describe the example you have selected from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Include the name of the piece, URL, and an image of the work of art. Describe the piece in your own words as though you are describing it to someone who cannot see it. Tell us what you like about it, and explain why you chose this particular piece.
Similarly, in the next paragraph, describe the work of art Equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius (Picture Below). Include the name of the piece, the image, the figure. Again, describe the piece in your own words as though you are describing it to someone who cannot see it. Tell us what you like about it and explain why you chose this particular piece.
In the final paragraph, compare and contrast the two pieces. Identify at least three similarities and three differences. Conclude with a brief analysis of what these two works of art tell us about the Greek and Roman civilizations (values, priorities, abilities) 500 words.
Equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius, ca. 173 c.e. Bronze, height 16 ft. 8 in. Piazza del Campidoglio, Rome.
FOR THE PICTURE FROM THE MUSEUM WEBSITE I CHOOSE
Terracotta Bell-Krate
For this virtual field trip, I have chosen to compare and contrast the Terracotta Bell-Krater from the Greek and Roman wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art with the Equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius. The Terracotta Bell-Krater is a vessel used for mixing wine and water during symposiums in ancient Greece. It is dated to around 340-320 BCE, and it is made from terracotta clay. The piece is decorated with intricate designs, including the depiction of the myth of the warrior Achilles dragging Hector’s body around the walls of Troy. The URL for this piece is https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/253295.
What I like about this piece is the level of detail that went into the design. The artist was able to capture the intensity of the moment when Achilles is dragging Hector’s body, which is a significant event in Greek mythology. The intricate design of the piece also highlights the skill and creativity of the artist who created it. I chose this particular piece because I am interested in Greek mythology and the artwork from this time period.
The Equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius is a bronze statue that stands at 16 feet and 8 inches tall. It is located in the Piazza del Campidoglio in Rome and is dated to around 173 CE. The statue depicts Marcus Aurelius, who was a Roman emperor from 161 to 180 CE, riding on a horse. The figure is depicted wearing armor and a military cloak, and his right hand is raised in a gesture of command. The URL for this piece is https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/248441.
What I like about this piece is how it captures the power and authority of Marcus Aurelius. The statue’s size and position on a horse make him appear larger than life, and the details of his armor and cloak show his military prowess. I chose this particular piece because I am interested in Roman history and the art of the Roman Empire.
In comparing and contrasting these two pieces, there are several similarities and differences. One similarity is that both pieces depict powerful and influential figures. The Terracotta Bell-Krater depicts Achilles, who was a legendary warrior in Greek mythology, and the Equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius depicts a Roman emperor. Another similarity is that both pieces show attention to detail and a high level of skill. The intricate designs on the Terracotta Bell-Krater and the detailed armor and cloak of Marcus Aurelius demonstrate the artists’ abilities.
One difference between the two pieces is the materials used. The Terracotta Bell-Krater is made from clay, while the Equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius is made from bronze. Another difference is the size and location of the pieces. The Terracotta Bell-Krater is much smaller and located in a museum, while the Equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius is monumental and located in a public square.
These two works of art tell us a lot about the Greek and Roman civilizations. The Terracotta Bell-Krater shows us that the Greeks valued their mythology and stories of heroes and warriors. It also demonstrates the artistic abilities of the Greeks, who were able to create intricate and detailed designs on everyday objects. The Equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius shows us that the Romans valued power, authority, and military prowess. It also demonstrates the Romans’ skill in creating monumental sculptures that were meant to inspire awe and admiration.
In conclusion, the Terracotta Bell-Krater and the Equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius are two fascinating pieces of art from the Greek and Roman civilizations. While they are different in many ways, they both demonstrate the skill and creativity of the artists who created them and tell us a lot about
