History-Quiz on Cycladic, Minoan, and Mycenaean Civilizations

Queen's Megaron

Minoan. Depicts Aquatic iconography. Dolphins and other sea life can be seen. The curves shown and the movement of the dolphins, lead them to appear to be leaping freely in the water. Shows the sea-faring economy of Crete.

Crocus gatherer

Minoan. The gather is depicted collecting four saffron, for presenting to the nature goddess, who is seen on a raised platform, receiving saffron from a monkey. The gatherer is light skinned, following conventions. She has a stylized outline of her eye, which is similar to the near east eye outlines. Her facial features/expressions are more specific, than the near eastern however, and she is set in spacious land, similar to the Minoan and Egyptian. The iconography is based off of a religious ritual, the crocus is the source of saffron which is used for medicine, as well as for rituals, etc. Minoans used monkeys to gather crocus/harvest in the spring time.

Aquatic iconography

Sea-faring economy of Crete is present in this. This shows/depicts the characteristics of Minoan pictorial style.

When were the Cycladic cultures discovered?

-the late 19th century.

How did the Mycenaeans portray the human figure? how does this relate to their cultural significance?

-Figures were richly curved, portraying a sense of flexibility in movement.

What is the difference between a buon fresco and a fresco secco?

-Buon frescoes are more durable and stronger than fresco secco. The buon fresco is applied to plaster and undergoes a process in which the color bonds with the plaster, while the fresco secco is painted directly upon a dry wall.

The Lion's Gate

-Crowned the Mycenaean citadel entrance and was centered at the end of a long walkway, approaching this entrance. The piece is corbel led. The heads of the lions were missing, leading there to be a potential the beasts were not in fact lions. The gate is formed using post and lintel with a relieving triangle, which aids in lessening the weight of the lintel. The corbeling was formed through arranging the layers, known as courses. Courses consisted of stone and allow for each block to extend beyond those lower. An arch is created by the stones at the top. Each lion is placing their paw on the Minoan alter. Used lots of mixed mediums.

How did the Cycladic people portray the human form? how does this relate to their cultural significance?

-Cycladic art mainly focused on the Cycladic figurines. These were portrayed with flat, wedge shaped bodies, columnar necks, and oval featureless faces, apart from well-defined noses. The figures had subtle curves and markings of the abdomen and knees.

What three distinct cultures flourished on the islands of the Aegean sea and mainland Greece?

-Cycladic, Minoan, and Mycenaean. These co-existed with the old, middle, and new kingdoms of Ancient Egypt. There is evidence these cultures had contact. The Cycladic cultures are considered prehistoric, as they flourished prior to the establishment of writing.

Cycladic figurines, male and female

-Cycladic. Originally painted blue, red, and green to emphasize their surface. They are symmetrical and consist of three evenly spaced circles. Perhaps, they were involved in religious ceremonies, or decorated for the different/important times of someone's life. Colors used to emphasize the figures on the surface of the figure, and the paintings were more important most likely than the figure itself. (artists spent lots of time, planning with math).

Tholos

-Exemplifies Mycenaean royal tomb architecture and is the largest, most dynamic surviving structure within Mycenae. (treasury of Atreus and tomb of Agamemnon.) These were for royalty, most likely, due to the large size. The ceiling consists of corbeled stones in a circular arrangement. They are crowned with a round capstone. The entrance to the Tholos was known as a Dromos. Above the entrance, was a lintel which separated the doorway with a triangle, relieving the lintel's weight.

Who was Heinrich Schliemann and what did he do?

-Heinrich Schliemann, a german archaeologist, first excavated the site of Troy (west coast of Turkey) and later, Mycenae. This discovery led to reveal a Mycenaean culture flourished. The reason he set out on this journey, was to prove the Trojan war actually happened. He focused his search on myths and on the story and legends of the Trojan war and the heroes within the war. (those discussed in The Odyssey)

What was the construction of Tholos thought to be influenced by?

-Influenced by the design of smaller tholoi

Why is the Cycladic culture considered prehistoric?

-It is considered prehistoric because there is the lack of a writing system. Herodotus provided written accounts of the Cycladic civilization, describing the inhabitants as notorious pirates.

Cups from Vapheio

-Left cup is potentially Minoan artist, while the one on the right is Mycenaean. Left portrays a man tying a bull, while the right shows a bull being caught and is more crude. A smooth line of gold was attached within the cup and these were buried with a king. The landscapes were formed with naturalism. The left cup, displays the man with the Minoan's use of curvilinear form. Everyday citizens probably did not drink from this, with the use of intricate design and gold.

How did the Minoans portray the human form? how does this relate to their cultural significance?

-Minoan art was very playful and displays motion and rhythm. The human figures and animals were portrayed in a dynamic swirling style and are characterized by their naturalistic and rhythmic movement. Human figures were painted as slim-waisted and athletic in body type, for males, as well as females. The males and females only differentiated in skin color.

What is a buon fresco?

-Minoan frescoes are buon (true) frescoes. To make a buon greco, pigments are mixed with water and applied to damp plaster. As this dries, the color bonds with the plaster, making buon fresco more durable and stronger than fresco secco. To add details, the details were painted over the fresco, which had to be applied quickly to ensue the plaster did not dry.

Toreador fresco

-Minoan. Best known wall painting from Knossos. Shows a bull, a boy, and two girls. The conventional use of color is utilized to aid in deciphering the different genders present (lighter-girl, darker-boy). The girl on the left grasps the bulls born, the boy somersaults over, and the girl on the right is ready to catch him. Could potentially be the depiction of a single figure, moving throughout the scene, in different forms. King not depicted, therefore to trying to delineate social status. Possibly used for fertility rites.

Describe the typical fresco at Thera?

-Minoan. Framed at the top with painted borders, often created by geometric/abstract patterns. Remarkable attention was paid to these; walls of public buildings and private homes were decorated with frescoes. These constitue an important, new group of paintings. They represent a wide range of subjects, including landscapes, animals, people engaging in sports, rituals, boats, and battles. They were mainly found apart and covered in volcanic ash, however, they were dusted off and placed back together.

Ship Fresco

-Minoan. Interpreted as the simple action of a fleet returning. The interpretations become more complex, with the idea of the image depicting a ceremonial rite. Perhaps most significant of paintings discovered at Thera. The fresco was a long, horizontal strip/frieze which extended over windows and doorways and included one with an abundance of information regarding the Minoan's lifestyle, including: harbors, cities, boats, villages, human figures, landscape, sea life, and land animals. Found in Thera and Acrete, depicting different ships, all decorated very differently.

Architectural plan of Knossos?

-Minoan. Post and lintel elevation, along with low ceilings and stone masonry walls. This was a labyrinth; a maze: home of the double-axe. Knossos was not fortified, as the naval fleet protected Crete.

Palace of Knossos, portico and ground plan

-Minoan. Residence of the King, Minos, and the largest of known palaces on Crete. Called a "labyrinth:" complicated irregular network of passages or paths in which it is difficult to find one's way; a maze: as it was thought to be the house of the double axe. Not fortified, crete was an island with a large naval fleet and this protected them from invasion. Served as commercial and religious center and utilized post and lintel elevation with low ceilings and stone masonry walls.

Bull's head ryhton

-Minoan. Small incisions, as well as the use of white show the texture and realistic attribute of the bull. This is a drinking vessel. One poured the wine or water in ad it comes out of the bull's mouth. Perhaps, blood of the bull sacrificed was used. The scratches are used for effect, to portray the wrinkles one would seen on the skin of the beast.

Harvester vase/rhyton

-Minoan. This is a serpentine rhyton used in religious rituals, dating back to 1500 BC. This reflects the Minoan tradition of lively, dynamic representation. The scene shows a procession of men heading out to harvest. The curvature of their tools form and echo the shape of the vase, as well as the exuberance of the figures present. The decoration on the relief exemplifies Minoan skill in carving. This was not found in tact, however, was placed back together. Man in center is playing a sistrum.

Boxing Children

-Minoan. Thought to be a that the boxers are participating in a coming of age ritual. The figures depicted stand on a flat base, rather than in a naturalistic space. They retain the convention of a frontal eye in a profile face. The boys are seen in composite pose. However, they consist of curved outlines and shifting planes of movement, which aid in creating a sense of sprightly, vigorous energy. Curvilinear form suggests Minoan, as well as the very blue, black hair which is also distinctly Minoan.

Kameres ware

-Minoan. Typical Kameres ware was freer and more curvilinear. It was an art of shape and color in which patterns were integrated in a balanced, organic matter, working in coloration with the shape of the pottery or vessel.

Snake goddess

-Minoan. Unknown significance, however, the motif of female deities dominating animals, referred to "mistress of the beast." Snakes were associated with fertility and agriculture and they did not have the evil connotations, as they have today and were later endowed.

Octopus vase/flask

-Minoan. Uses Karmeres ware to depict aquatic iconography, as well as show the importance of sea life within the Minoan culture. The Minoans dominance over the sea and region, nearly meres the octopus's dominance in the sea. Knew more about the depths of the ocean and water, in order to depict an octopus. This shows the Minoans as seafarers.

What is a fresco secco?

-Minoans also used fresco secco, which is a process in which paint is applied to a dry wall, for additional details.

Mycenaean Goddess

-Mycenae. Shares similar characteristics to the Minoan fresco style. The best preserved fresco from Mycenae; discovered in the citadel. It shows naturalism, with curvilinear form and the woman, is smiling slightly. The jewelry and elaborate pieces show she is one of high stash, potentially even a goddess. The similarities to the Minoans, include the frontal eye, with profiled face, naturalism enhanced through curvilinear form, and defined features, such as her torso, eyebrows, or eye.

Architectural plan of Mycenae?

-Mycenae. The palace was rectangular. The King's throne lied in the center of the throne room, facing a hearth. The Mycenaeans did not have temples separate from their palaces, similar to the Minoans. Shrines found within the palace, were decorated accordingly and elaborately.

How has the plan of Mycenae aided in the speculation of the palace's use?

-Mycenaean architecture was very different than the direction of the Minoan complexes. The rulers fortified strongholds, known as citadels, to protect the palace. A large gateway was included, to display the city's importance. The walls and citadel protected enemies from entering the complex in multiple directions. The megaron was the main destination of the complex and contained a central hearth, surrounded by columns, associating itself with royalty. In Minoan, the courtyard was the main destination, while in Mycenaean the central hearth or megaron was.

Golden lion's head ryhton

-Mycenaean. Depicts the importance of the lion in Mycenaean art, as well as plays the role of a rhyton.

Warrior krater

-Mycenaean. Displays the human form. Shows warriors off to battle, with shields, helmets, and spears. The soldiers are painted similarly, leading there to be no indication of individual portraiture. The men constitute interchangeable parts of a well-oiled military "machine."

Mask of Agamemnon

-Mycenaean. Potentially, the mask covered the face of the ruler called "Agamemnon." It is indicated to be the death mask. Within the mask, the thin lips and curved mustache, suggest the mask was of a certain person or a "death mask." The gold is hammed on the inside, making the image appear and pop-out on the outside. Attempted to show naturalization, as well as used gold as a medium. This does not match up correctly with the time and the features of the mask appear to be fake and more current, than the time of the hero.

Stirrup jar with octopus

-Mycenaean. The Minoans with the use of their aquatic iconography, perhaps influenced the creation of this vase. The marine imagery on the vase, suggest it is similar and derives from the artwork of the Minoan culture on Crete. Takes its name from the stirrup shaped handles on the top of the jar. Also, shows the importance of curvilinear design.

What was the importance of the Cycladic figures?

-Perhaps used in religious ceremonies. They range from a few inches to 5 feet. They are called, "idols:" "image." They were thought to be used for worship and religious perceptions. Female figures were more numerous and they were unable to stand on their own, leading them to be used for carrying in religious processions, perhaps. Male figures usually portrayed playing instruments. Male figures also have pedestals, besides the anatomical difference. (can stand on their own).

Why was the sea essential to the Mycenaean and Minoans?

-Prevalent it is essential through its role in art. Sea is essential as it was a sign for communication, source of food, and aided in wealth. The civilizations were able to gain and maintain power within their domain, due to the sea, therefore it was very important to them and their lifestyle.

Why was the bull significant?

-The bull was present throughout artwork of the Minoans, as well as played a momentous role in the pastime of bull-jumping/leaping. This was taken very seriously in the Minoan civilization and could often be found, at the Palace of Knossos. The bull represented power and fertility. It played a pivotal role in the Minoan religion and was worshipped as an idol. The bull shed light on the Minoan Civilization's relationship/association with nature, as well as shows the great strength of the civilization.

Characteristics of Aegean paintings?

-Symbolic griffin always flank a female; enhanced illusion of depth, expansive, generalized quality of landscape, and using curved outlines and shading, creating a 3d contour.

Where were the Cyclades?

-The Cyclades were located in the Southern part of the Aegean Sea and formed a circle formation, of the islands.

What does the name cyclades derive from?

-The Cyclades' name derives from the greek work, Kuklos. This is because, they are a group of islands, which create a circle form, in the southern part of the Aegean sea.

Where was the Mycenaean empire?

-The Mycenaean empire controlled/dominated most of the Aegean sea. They were very advanced sea-farers. They flourished from 1600 to 1100 BCE. Eventually, the Mycenaean's took over Crete and ruled the island of Knossos.

What culture is the bull prevalent in?

-The bull is prevalent in the Minoan civilization, as bull-jumping was very popular and the depiction of bulls in artwork was commonly seen.

How has the plan of Knossos aided in the speculation of the palace's use?

-The entire structure was known as the labyrinth, as it included arranged rooms and was very maze-like. The confusing layout included doors leading to stairs, blocked off corridors, and dead ends to prevent intruders. The structure appeared to be a community center where people met to discuss business and leadership. Central courtyards were the main focus in the palace, rather than temples.

What culture was the lion ubiquitous throughout?

-The lion was ubiquitous throughout the Mycenaean culture.

Where does the Mycenaean name come from?

-The name comes from its first site excavated: Mycenae. The Mycenaean citadel was built on a hilltop and fortified with massive stone walls.

What were the large stones used to make the city walls? Why were these called this?

-The walls surrounding the area were thick and monumental, as well as constructed with large, irregular stone blocks. The large stone used to make the city walls were known as "Cyclopean." This name derives from the enormous weight of the blocks, leading these to be associated with the Cyclopes. The stones were so massive, it was thought to be only the Cyclops could lift them.

What was discovered at Thera?

-Thera, now known as Santorini, was located in the southern Cyclades. (north of crete). It was thought that the Minoans left Thera, due to a massive volcanic eruption. Thera represented a high standard for living, with paved, winding streets, stone and mud brick homes, including basements for storage and workroom space, as well as an upper-story living quarter. The implements discovered suggest an active farming, as well as seafaring economy, lifestyle. These comfortable living conditions were very rare and suggested a high standard for living, for those than inhabited it.

What would tholos have contained and what do they continue now?

-They would be used to bury the dead; "underground beehive." An ancient tomb. They were meant to preserve the body and to preserve the ancient artifacts. Now, they are empty and dug out, with the doorways removed. The tholos used to contain magnificent, beautiful gold objects. However, are now bare.

Who was Sir Arthur Evans and what did he do?

-a british archaeologist, who discovered the Minoan civilization in the late 1800s. He searched for the civilization in hopes of establishing a historical basis for myths. He named the civilization Minoan, after King Minos.

What were the inhabitants of the Cyclades like?

-accomplished sailors, fishermen, and traders. They also hunted and farmed.

What is the significance of the double axe?

-cult object during the Minoan era. Represented in paintings and reliefs, throughout the palace of Knossos. They were used to sacrifice bulls, which are sacred animals in Ancient Greece.

According to Greek mythology, what was Crete home to?

-home of the King Minos: son of zeus and the mortal Europa.

Where were the Minoan cities located?

-on the modern Greek Island, Crete. (south to Cyclades and Northwest to Nile Delta).

How did the palace of Knossos generate its wealth?

-organized system of distributing and receiving local agricultural products and imported luxury goods. Industry, trade, and justice were administered from the palace. The wealth was mainly stored in large terra-cotta "cooked earth" jars.

What is a ryhton?

A drinking vessel/vase, used for ceremonial or religious aspects. EX: Harvester vase or the Bull's Head Rhyton.

Similarities and differences between Minoan and Egyptian conventions?

S: females depicted with light skin than males. Profile head is also combined with a frontal eye. D: Predominance of curvilinear form in Minoan art and the dynamic movements of the figures in space. No writing in Minoan, with the addition of a border ensuring the fresco stayed intact. Also, in Minoan, the color stayed due to using a buon fresco, rather than painting the images as pictorial reliefs, like the Egyptians. The depiction of time and sequencing is common in Minoan, rather than Egyptian.

What is the Lion's Gate symbolic with?

The connection of the Lions flanking a Minoan style column, reflecting the nature goddess, leads the relief to be deeply symbolic with displaying the lions as obedient to the goddess, as well as the power immanent in the symbol.