Etruscan Flashcards
Who were the Etruscans and what was their culture like?
- they are related, but also distinct from the Greeks
- seafarers, traders, miners, metalworkers
- city states
- known for mirrors
- fascinated w the afterlife and divining the future; superstitious and fatalistic
What art form were the Etruscans well known for?
freestanding sculpture and architectural reliefs; master bronze smiths
How is an Etruscan temple different from a Greek temple?
Etruscan temples were of tuscan order; columns were just up front; have a pediment, but figures on top of temple, not in the pediment; foundation is stone, and the rest is wood
Why did Etruscan culture die out?
The Etruscans never united into one state, and this lack of political cohesion made it easy for the Romans to take over
What was the Etruscan view of the afterlife?
death was the journey to the afterlife and had a fear that the neglected dead may become malevolent; therefore, tombs were constructed with particular care, solidity, and lavishness. Thus, the dead would take pleasure in their last dwelling, enjoy their afterlife, and chose not to haunt the living
Fibula from the Regaling-Galassi Tomb
Figures are eastern looking, stylized, and convey power and prestige
Apulu of Veii
Eyes are big, stylized hair, archaic smile
Sarcophagus with Reclining Couple
- focused on upper half of the figures
- vibrant faces and gesticulating arms
- women in Etruscan society could keep their names, own property, attend banquets
Terra-cotta
unglazed, typically brownish-red earthenware
Sarcophagus
a stone coffin, typically adorned with a sculpture or inscription
Necropolis
Where the dead were buried
Repouse
hammered into relief from the reverse side
Tuscan order
similar to Roman Doric but having columns with an unfluted shaft and a simplified base, capital, and entablature
