Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
MUSEUM OF CYCLADIC ART
A delightful setting in which to ponder elegant, semi-abstract Cycladic figur-
ines - remnants of a culture that flourished in the Cyclades from
3200-2000 BC. The beautiful marble carvings are unlike anything found in
contemporary civilizations. Most are female forms - possibly cult objects of
a goddess religion - and their elemental shapes have inspired many 20th-
century artists.
Neofytou Douka 4 and Vasilissis Sofias • 210 722 8321 •
www.cycladic.gr
• Metro: Evangelismos • 10am-4pm Mon-Fri,
10am-3pm Sat • Adm: €7 (€3.50 on Mon); concessions: €2.50-€3.50
Google Map
1. “MODIGLIANI” FIGURE
So-called because the lines of this figure show up clearly in the work of 20th-century
painter Amedeo Modigliani. The slender, simple shape, crossed arms and smooth
face are all classic Cycladic traits. Non-standing feet indicate that such figures would
probably have been lying down.
2. DOVE VASE
Carved entirely from one block of marble, this is the most remarkable of a series of
“frying-pan” vases found in tombs. Archaeologists believe birds held an important
symbolism for the Cycladic culture, as they appear in many other carvings as well -
but as to the nature of that significance, the mystery remains.
3. HUNTER-WARRIOR AND QUEEN
The male and female figures, with elongated arms and almond-shaped eyes and
mouths, are the most naturalistic of the later Cycladic figures. Experts believe that
the baldric and dagger carved around the male figure indicates that he was a hunter-
warrior.
