The Archaic Period
The following artefacts have originated from the Archaic period (750 - 480 BC) of Greek History. Each exploring different aspects of culture of the society of this time, these artefacts are timeless treasures that have been nurtured to preserve such an influential time period in History.
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Rare gold coin of Athens:
This delicately crafted gold coin known as a stater, is estimated to have originated from approximately 296 BC, existing in circulation between 600 - 200 BC. The extremely rare artefact was derived from the gold and ivory statue of Athena in the Parthenon, and depicts a side view portrait of the goddess of wisdom Athena. Issued to pay troops during the siege of Athens, the coin provides an insight into various aspects of society during the Archaic period, including economy, war and trade.
This delicately crafted gold coin known as a stater, is estimated to have originated from approximately 296 BC, existing in circulation between 600 - 200 BC. The extremely rare artefact was derived from the gold and ivory statue of Athena in the Parthenon, and depicts a side view portrait of the goddess of wisdom Athena. Issued to pay troops during the siege of Athens, the coin provides an insight into various aspects of society during the Archaic period, including economy, war and trade.
Etruscan black figure vase:
This amphora - doubled handled vase - is believed to have originated from a similar time period to the gold stater of Athens, being between 600 - 200 BC. The technique used to decorate the pottery vase was first explored in the Greek city of Corinth, before being introduced throughout Greece in the 6th Century. Upon first examination, the amphora was thought to be a 'Pontic' creation, tracing its origin back to the Black Sea area in the East, however through further analysis of the clay, was later determined to originate from Etruria, Central Italy in the West. The story to which the figures tell remains controversial, however the amphora provides a basic understanding of the culture of Greek society in relation to art, food storage and religion from the Archaic period. |
Parthenon Temple - block of sandstone:
The Parthenon is a former temple on the Athenian Acropolis constructed between 447 - 438 BC, in which the Athenian Empire was at the height of its power. The impressive structure is regarded as the supreme achievement of Greek architecture, as a dedication to the goddess of wisdom and courage Athena. The people of Athens saw Athena as their 'patron' or 'guardian goddess' to which they praised and honoured on a regular basis. In ceremony, offerings of food, wine and even statues would be made to please the Gods, with the aim of avoiding angering them. Located at the highest point on the Acropolis of Athens and weighing approximately 22,000 tonnes, the Parthenon remains today as an incredible work of architecture that highlights the importance of religion within the everyday lives of the Ancient Greeks. |