HAD-427 Color in Ancient Greece & Rome

3 Credits

Color was a critical aspect of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds, counter to post-Renaissance chromophobia that sees ancient marble sculpture as plain white. We will look closely at polychromy of ancient sculptures, mineral pigments, their application and effects, and issues surrounding modern reconstructions. We will also examine other types of added color, such as fabric dyes and wall and panel paintings, as well as the vast world of inherent color, especially precious metals, marbles, gemstones, fibers, woods, and clays. In addition, we will consider color in other ancient cultures. This seminar includes an independent research project and museum visits.