Ancient Greek Art: Forms And Symbols

1. What was the purpose of a Dipolon vase?

A type of currency used in 6th century Athens.

A type of food storage container used in Roman households.

A type of musical instrument used in ancient Greece.

Dipolon vases were commonly used in the context of funerary rituals, specifically for pouring liquid offerings over burial sites during the late 8th century in Athens.

Explanation

Dipolon vases were commonly used in the context of funerary rituals, specifically for pouring liquid offerings over burial sites during the late 8th century in Athens.

2. Who is depicted in the black figure amphora from 540 BCE Rome Archaic playing dice?

Julius Caesar, Cleopatra and Mark Antony

Hercules, Perseus and Theseus

Socrates, Plato and Aristotle

The correct answer shows the homeric heroes playing dice. Two figures lean on their spears creating a rhythmical composition, which is the first known representation of a gaming scene.

Explanation

The correct answer shows the homeric heroes playing dice. Two figures lean on their spears creating a rhythmical composition, which is the first known representation of a gaming scene.

3. What is an architrave?

A type of plant species.

A type of architectural ornament.

A row of stone blocks directily supporting the collums

A decorative lighting fixture.

An architrave is a specific architectural element consisting of a row of stone blocks that directly support the columns above. It serves as a supporting beam that rests on the capitals of the columns.

Explanation

An architrave is a specific architectural element consisting of a row of stone blocks that directly support the columns above. It serves as a supporting beam that rests on the capitals of the columns.

4. What is an abacus?

A style of artwork characterized by intricate designs and patterns.

A musical instrument used in traditional Japanese music.

Square tablet above the echinus

A type of shellfish found in the Pacific Ocean.

An abacus is actually a calculation tool used for performing arithmetic calculations. It consists of beads that can be moved along rods or grooves to represent numbers.

Explanation

An abacus is actually a calculation tool used for performing arithmetic calculations. It consists of beads that can be moved along rods or grooves to represent numbers.

5. What does the term 'acanthus' refer to in architecture?

A method of constructing arches

A specific type of stained glass design

A type of ancient Greek column

In architecture, an ornament is carved into stone or wood to resemble leaves

In architecture, the term 'acanthus' specifically refers to an ornament that is carved into stone or wood to resemble leaves. It is commonly used as a decorative element on columns, friezes, and other architectural features.

Explanation

In architecture, the term 'acanthus' specifically refers to an ornament that is carved into stone or wood to resemble leaves. It is commonly used as a decorative element on columns, friezes, and other architectural features.