Ancient Greece: Architectural Statuary

Ancient Greece: Architectural Statuary Though most sculptors were compensated by the temples to decorate the elaborate columns and archways with renderings of the gods of old, as the time period came to a close, it became more common for sculptors to represent average people as well because plenty of Greeks had begun to think of their religion as superstitious rather than sacred. Portraiture, which would be acknowledged by the Romans upon their annexation of Greek civilization became traditional as well, and thriving family members would sometimes commission a portrayal of their forebears to be placed in immense familial tombs. A point of aesthetic progression, the use of sculpture and alternate art forms morphed through the Greek Classical period, so it is inaccurate to assume that the arts served only one function. It may be the advanced quality of Greek sculpture that captivates our attention these days; it was on a leading-edge practice of the ancient world regardless of whether it was created for religious purposes or artistic pleasure.

Anglo Saxon Gardens During the Norman Conquest

Anglo Saxon Gardens During the Norman Conquest The Anglo-Saxon way of life was dramatically changed by the arrival of the Normans in the later eleventh century. The Normans were better than the Anglo-Saxons at architecture and horticulture when they came into power. However, there was no time for home life, domestic architecture, and decoration until the Normans had conquered the whole realm. Most often designed upon windy peaks, castles were basic constructs that permitted their occupants to spend time and space to offensive and defensive strategies, while monasteries were rambling stone buildings commonly installed in only the most fecund, extensive valleys. The calm practice of gardening was unrealistic in these dreary bastions. The best specimen of the early Anglo-Norman style of architecture existent in modern times is Berkeley Castle. The keep is thought to date from the time of William the Conqueror. A significant terrace serves as a deterrent to intruders who would attempt to mine the walls of the building. On one of these parapets is a picturesque bowling green covered in grass and surrounded by an aged hedge of yew that has been shaped into coarse battlements.