top of page
Bacchus.jpg
0vase-tran_edited.png

Etruscan Art

Randy H. Sooknanan

ASAG Journal

May 25, 2020

Ancient Etruscan art is known for its distinctive style and unique characteristics, which set it apart from other ancient art forms. Some hallmarks of Etruscan art include, Terracotta sculpture, an emphasis on realism, the use of bronze in artworks, influence being carried over from other cultures they had interacted with, and scenes of everyday life in Etruscan society.

With Terracotta sculpture,Etruscan art is known for its use of terracotta, a type of fired clay that was commonly used to create figurines, statues, and other sculptural works. Etruscan terracotta sculptures often depict figures in lifelike poses and with detailed facial features. We can also note an emphasis on realism: Etruscan art is characterized by its emphasis on realism and attention to detail. Etruscan artists were skilled at capturing the physical characteristics and expressions of their subjects, creating works that were highly realistic and naturalistic. We can also see the use of bronze features in Etruscan art, for bronze was a metal that was highly valued in ancient times. Etruscan bronze sculptures would often depict warriors and other figures in dynamic poses, with intricate details and decorations. Etruscan art was also influenced by other cultures, including the Greeks and the Romans. Etruscan artists borrowed ideas and techniques from these cultures, but also developed their own unique style and iconography. Finally  we see their arts often depicted scenes from everyday life, such as banquets, games, and other social events. These scenes provide a glimpse into the social and cultural customs of the Etruscan people, and showcase the rich and vibrant culture of this ancient civilization. In the end Etruscan art is known for its distinctive style and unique characteristics, including its use of terracotta, emphasis on realism, and influences from other cultures. Etruscan art provides valuable insights into the history and culture of this ancient civilization, and continues to inspire and influence artists and scholars today.

Let's take a look at some examples...

Etruscan art - Bacchus

Bacchus was essentially a copy of the Greek god Dionysus. He was the God of agriculture and wine and the son of Jupiter (Zeus in Greek mythology). He wandered the earth, showing people how to grow vines and process the grapes for wine. Here we see some representations of the deity in bronze works (Fig 1-4).

Bacchus.jpg

Fig 1.Etruscan Revivalist Art
Pendant Bachus, Etruscan filigree. Castellani, 1870
https://lobortas.com/en/blog/jewelry-and-watches/archeological-revival-by-fortunato-pio-castellani-part-two-170514

Figures

Etruscan art - Bacchus

Bronze Chariot inlaid with Ivory

—Etruscan, with Greek influence
(2nd quarter of the 6th century BC)

The Figures on the Chariot:

Here we see a chariot bronzed with ivory features (Fig 5-12)The iconography represents a carefully thought-out program. The three major panels of the car depict episodes from the life of Achilles, the Greek hero of the Trojan War. In the magnificent central scene, Achilles, on the right, receives from his mother, Thetis, on the left, a shield and helmet to replace the armor that Achilles had given his friend Patroklos, for combat against the Trojan Hektor. Patroklos was killed, allowing Hektor to take Achilles' armour.

Figures

Bronze Chariot inlaid with Ivory

bottom of page