Ancient Greek Statues Were Painted: A New Discovery Reveals a Colorful Past

Ancient Greece: New Discovery Reveals Vibrant Colors of Statues and Terracotta A recent discovery in Greece has shed new light on the artistic practices of ancient Greek artisans. Remnants of paint colors have been found in broken clay vessels unearthed from the workshop of Phidias, the celebrated sculptor of the 5th century BC. This discovery suggests that many ancient Greek statues and terracotta artifacts, typically perceived as plain, were originally painted in a variety of vibrant colors. "Did you know that marble statues, as well as terracotta ones, were painted in antiquity?" the presenter notes in the accompanying video. The video showcases the remnants of these pigments, offering a glimpse into the ancient color palette. Several examples of terracotta pieces displaying the original painted designs further support this claim. The discovery provides valuable insight into the lost artistry of ancient Greece, revealing a previously unknown aspect of their artistic heritage. The use of color adds a new dimension to our understanding of the beauty and sophistication of ancient Greek art and craftsmanship. Further research is underway to fully understand the range of colors used and the techniques employed by Phidias and his contemporaries.