Greek and Roman art are similar, and some people may have a hard time distinguishing between them. However, there are key differences in the style of art and architecture from both civilizations. You can use these tips to compare various sculptures, buildings and other art objects.
Sculpture

According to “Gardner's Art Through the Ages,” classical Greek sculpture presented idealized human forms, focusing on balance, symmetry and the physical beauty of the subject. Roman sculpture began as a tradition of funerary portrait busts, emphasizing a brutally realistic view of the subject while incorporating the technical innovations of the Greek tradition.
Architecture

Major Greek architecture is characterized by Doric, Ionic and Corinthian columns, decorated pediments and an emphasis on symmetry. Though Roman architects borrowed many of these features, according to the Metropolitan Museum of Art they adapted the basic building plans and were distinguished by their use of barrel and groin vaults, concrete and hemispherical domes, such as in the Pantheon.
Pottery

Greek red and black figure pottery was decorated with scenes from myth and legend, or occasionally with funerary scenes. Roman pottery, according to the British Museum, was primarily made and decorated in the terra sigillata style, though styles from other parts of the empire, such as African Red Slip Ware, eventually supplanted it.
References
- "Gardner's History of Art Through the Ages: A Concise History"; Fred S. Kleiner and Christin J. Mamiya; Thomson Wadsworth; 2006
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Theater and Ampitheater in the Roman World
- The British Museum: Roman Pottery
- "The Art of Classical Greece"; Karl Schefold; Crown Publishers; 1967
- "Roman Art and Architecture"; Mortimer Wheeler; F. A. Praeger; 1964
Writer Bio
Nicole Votta is a freelancer who began writing professionally in 2008. Her work has appeared in publications such as "History Magazine" and "Family Chronicle." She graduated from Sheridan College in Oakville, Ontario, with a diploma in journalism.
Related Articles