Cycladic Figurines

EC II 

Cyclades, National Museum Athens

Marble

Once painted, often showed signs of grieving. Were often showed as pregnant females, due to enlarged breasts, pregnant stomachs, or pubic triangle. Schmatic form, inspired modern painters in the 1920s. 

Cycladic Vessels - "Frying Pans" 

Ceramic

Syros

Not hyper realistic, but designed. 

The use is unknown, the name comes from the shape. Shows where technology was at this point in time (they could make ceramic). 

Reproduction of the Grandstand Fresco. 

Watercolor. 

20th Century

Oxford

Showed the different things that the palaces were used for. 

Herakleion Museum, from Knossos Palace

May reflect actual activities, but marble floors wouldn't give bulls any traction. Shows rich Minoan bull motif that is popular in Minoan culture - from Minotaur myth. 

New Palace, MM IIB - LM IB

Fresco/Paint

Bull's Head Rhyton

Knossos

1368, Little Palace

Limestone, rock crystal, gilt wood, shell.

Was ritualistic due to the impracticality of it, showed again the popular bull motif in Minoan culture, divulging from the Minotaur myth. 

"Snake Goddess" 

Herakleoin Museum, Knossos

MA 65

Faience Figure

May represent Minoan divinities, wear flounced skirts with exposed, ample breasts. Showed insights into Minoan religious activities. 

"Pilgrim's Flask" 

Herakleoin Museum, from Palaikastro

Terra cotta

MM 3383 

Showed the emphasis on the natural world, and the fascination Minoans had with the natural world. Decorated in "marine style," shows an octopus and mollusk motifs. 

"Terracotta Mycenae Religious Figurines" 

Terra cotta

LH III A 

Mycenae 

Female terra cotta figurines were found 'in situ.' With no apparent use and a prominent placement, suggests religious activities. Wheel made - showed technology at the time. 

"Room with a Fresco" 

Mycenae 

Painting / Fresco 

Significant elements include: women, snakes, and plants. Similar Minoan motifs that are not unique to Mycenae. Shows that these two cultures blended together - whether Minoans worked on the fresco or they were influenced by them.