Archaic
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Archaic designates art from the Archaic period of ancient Greece (roughly 700-480 BCE), a time when Greek sculptors developed the conventions that would define Western art. The period is famous for the kouros and kore figures: rigid, forward-facing statues of young men and women with the distinctive "Archaic smile." These carved marble figures evolved steadily toward greater naturalism over two centuries.
Archaic sculptors also produced elaborate temple decoration, relief carvings, and small bronze votives. The period ended with the Persian Wars, after which Greek art entered the Classical phase. Our collection includes 4 Archaic works at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Sculptures by Archaic
4 sculptures catalogued with museum locations. Browse all sculptures
Sculpture
B
Birdstone
Archaic, -1500
Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago
Sculpture
D
Double-Edged Bannerstone
Archaic, -5800
Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago
Sculpture
S
Saddle-Face Bannerstone
Archaic, -3000
Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago
Sculpture
N
Notched Ovate Bannerstone
Archaic, -5000
Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago
Museums with Archaic's Work
1 museum displays Archaic's works. Click any museum to see visiting info and the specific works they hold.
About Archaic
The hallmarks are kouros and kore figures: rigid, frontal statues with the characteristic "Archaic smile." Over two centuries, these figures evolved from stiff forms toward increasingly natural poses.
The Archaic period lasted from roughly 700 to 480 BCE, ending with the Persian Wars. It laid the foundation for the Classical period's naturalistic human figures.
The Art Institute of Chicago has several pieces. The National Archaeological Museum in Athens and the Acropolis Museum hold the finest collections.
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