ored object on the figure of the servant, whose clothing is completely white. Both works share the same surrounding composition, with a completely flat, one colored background. Each vase has well-proportioned human figures, but depicts the figures in some strange angles. One depicts Artemis with her knee turned back at an impossible angle, while the other shows the woman in front view, except the arm that reaches for the offering. Overall, these works share many common traits of composition, which were characteristic of the classical period.One thing I always consider about a work of art is the lasting impression it leaves on the viewer, and the overall mood of the piece. Looking at Artemis Slaying Actaeon, you would think there would be a feeling of anger and pain because of the subject matter, but it doesnt seem that way to me. The anger and pain is still somewhat sensed, but the feeling I get is one of indifference. This may come from the lack of emotion put into works of the classical period, but it almost seems that Actaeon is ready and willing to die by the hand of Artemis. His hand reaching to the sky suggests this, almost as if he is waiting for the gods to come and take him away. From the Lekythos Woman and Maid, I felt a bit of the same indifference as in the other, but the knowing that it was used as a burial rite also gives it a sense of melancholy. Also I see a sense of arrogance and power by the unimpressed look on the womans face that looks almost annoyed by the offering from the slave. Artemis Slaying Actaeon and Woman and Maid, serve as only a sample of the pottery produced in Ancient Greece. By directly comparing the styles of these two very opposite works, we have a better idea of art and culture in the classical period. However, the classical period is only one small part of history and pottery can only help shed light on one aspect of the artwork and this vast culture. Ancient Greece was most likely a ...
