Join Ms Anastasia Panagiotopoulou (Hellenic Ministry of Culture) for a discussion about Personifications of Natural Elements and Their Representations in the Mosaics of Sparta and the Peloponnese
Summary:
The natural environment is an important factor for the vital space of the human being, and therefore, for determining its way of life and contributing to its prosperity. The observation of the dominant atmospheric phenomena and of the natural elements, as well as the attempt to interpret them, leads gradually to their personification, to the creation of local myths and, eventually, to their deification. Such personifications have been depicted in various artistic media, among which, mosaics. The aim of this talk is to present depictions of such natural elements in the mosaics of Sparta and the Peloponnese, Greece. I will explore their origin, offer comparisons with other similar depictions either in mosaic or other forms of art, and finally, I will investigate the role that the natural environment plays in the creation of myths and other modes of artistic expression in the Peloponnese.
On the mosaic floors of the Peloponnese, we find depictions of several natural elements. Indeed, some of the scenes remain unique in the Helladic world and of the mosaic art in general. My remarks and conclusions are based on published mosaics or finds from my own excavations and do not constitute an exhaustive study on the topic. These personifications will be grouped under the following five categories: divinities of the sky, of the earth, of water, of the sea, and of natural forces.
All are very welcome. Free to attend.
Discussants:
Dr Anastasia Papathanasiou Ms Anastasia Panagiotopoulou (Hellenic Ministry of Culture)
Dr Petros Doukas (Mayor of Sparti)
Dr Chrysanthi Gallou (University of Nottingham)
The event will be hosted on Microsoft Teams. Register for this event on Microsoft Teams now to receive an email link for this event.