Most Ancient Greek statues and vase paintings do not list the names of the figures depicted. Archaeologists need to look for clues to identify them. Gods and goddesses had certain attributes, or characteristics, unique to them. Therefore, when archaeologists identify these attributes, they can almost certainly assign a name to the figure.
Often the way that ancient artists depicted a figure or a group of figures was reproduced by multiple artists throughout the Greek world in much the same way. This reproduction is called a “figural type.” Some types include Farnese Hercules and Aphrodite Hoplismene. When archaeologists try to identify a statue or a scene in a vase painting, they also rely on figural types that are well known in Greek art because they were reproduced widely.
The American School of Classical Studies at Athens (ASCSA) supports the investigation, preservation, and presentation of Greece’s cultural heritage by bring Greece’s past to life. ASCSA’s “Mystery Identity” series encourages students to think like archaeologists by looking for clues that will help them identify the names of different Greek statues. Additional links lead students to online resources where they can learn more about the particular god or goddess and read more about the artifacts.
Plus: Teachers and students can connect live with an archaeologist and learn firsthand about archaeological fieldwork, museum work, and the archaeology of Ancient Corinth. The session is free, and teachers can connect on their preferred videoconferencing platform. They only need access to the internet and a webcam. Teachers who have questions or are interested in participating in one of ASCSA’s educational programs can contact ASCSA by filling out the online form.