HINTS FOR DISCUSSION ON VASE PAINTINGS
(Some points also applicable to sculpture)
(a) Shape and function of the vase. (b) Technique - BF, RF, White Ground, 'Bilingual'." (c) Identification of the scene - mythological or everyday. (d) Comparison with other known works (e) Grouping of figures - peaceful? Violent? Why? (f) Expression of emotion - eyes, f:ace, etc. (g) Poses - frontal, sideways, three-quarters - forshortened? Twisted? (h) Drapery - folds = stiff? Flat? Sharply zigzagged? Does drapery help general effect? - Internal or just on the surface? (i) The overall effect and atmosphere of the vase - dignified? Lively? Erotic'? etc. How is the effect achieved? Subject -matter will affect its treatment (especially applicable to architecture and sculpture). (j) Date? - Evidence from the above points? c550BC -> 520BC = BFV c520BC -> = RFV c450BC (especially) = White ground
Discussion about the date is far more important than just a brief mention of possible/probable date.
- BFV - Sophilos; Amasis Painter, Lydos; Exekias; Psiax; Andocides Painter
- (also 'Bilinguals').
- RFT - Oltos and Epictetos (c520-500);
- Euphronios and Euthymides; Onesimos and Sosias Painter; Cleophrades Painter and Berlin Painter (500 -> 470BC);
- Douris and Brygos Painter; Sotades Painter (c460BC).