Theseionby elven21, 2007. The temple of Hephaistos in Athens, Autumn 2007.
Some archaeological comments:
The site of the ancient Agora in Athens is dominated by the “Theseion” ( Θησείον ). This lovely marble temple, built atop the hill of Agoraios Kolonos, is the best-preserved temple of Hellenic antiquity and though smaller than the Parthenon rivals it in beauty and architectural perfection. The name Theseion had been given long ago to the temple (because of the “Exploits of Theseus” that are depicted on the metopes of the long north and south sides), although it is now known to be a misnomer, since the temple was in fact dedicated to the gods Hephaistos and Athena. Traces of foundries and workshops have been found on the slopes of the hill and Hephaistos was patron god of smiths and metalworkers, while Athena was patron of craftsmen and particularly potters (in Greek, kerameis), after whom the surrounding area was named Kerameikos ( “ Potters’ Quarter ” ).
Building of the “Hephaisteion” ( Ηφαιστείον ) began in the mid-fifth century BC and was completed around 420 BC. The temple is in the Doric order, peripteral, with six columns front and back and 13 on the long side, 13,80 x 31,80 metres. The columns display a slight entasis and incline towards the centre, as happens on the Parthenon. The cella housed statues of Hephaistos and Athena, works of the sculptor Alkamenes. In Christian times the temple was converted into a church of St. Georgios, which was used for worship until 1833, when it was declared a national monument.
The restoration of private rooms in the London house museum of the innovative early 19th-century architect allows a broader look into his domestic life.
Hello! Sorry I’ve been so inactive for so long, it’s just that I moved to England and things are kind of busy. But I’m about to hit up some amazing museums, so you can expect more content soon!
Neck–amphora, ca. 540 B.C.; Archaic; black–figure Attributed to Exekias
Note the red back ground. Mostly women are picked out in white because in somewhere like Classical Athens, women spent a majority of their time indoors. They weren't ‘tanned’ like men, who were painted in the black style.
Red Figure;
Late 5th century Stamnos Dinos Painter
In this style the white and black technique is less prominent. The Maenads and the representation of Dionysos are similar.
White Ground Technique;
Early 5th century Woman holding a distaff.
Far less common that black or red figure vases because the white technique is less durable and is usually reserved for votive offerings and grave gifts.
The Central Archaeological Council (CAC) has made progress in plans to build a brand-new museum on the island of Delos, one of the best known and significant archaeological sites in Greece. The general framework of principles and specifications for a study on the…
The world has lost a bright light today. Robin Williams was an amazing comedian, and I am so grateful to have been touched by his works. I have always kept a little stuffed toy of the Genie from Aladdin next to my desk, and whenever I looked at him I would think of the magical and insanely talented Robin Williams, and I would smile. His humor picked me up when I thought it wasn’t possible, and so I will always keep him with me. You are in my heart, and I will miss you so very much. Thank you for the laughter, and I hope that you are happy and finally at peace, wherever you are.
