A Bloom of Perpetual Newness: The Colors of Ancient Greek and Roman Sculpture
Analysis of the Parthenon sculptures. Photo: K. Weglowska. Copyright: Trustees of the British Museum
Join us for a virtual symposium on October 1 at 6 PM Central (RSVP required).
Giovanni Verri, Conservation Scientist at the Art Institute of Chicago, will present his recent investigations and newest research into color on ancient statues. This symposium will not be recorded.
Special thanks to the Archaeological Institute of America for their sponsorship of this program with RS Webster Lectureship grant.
ABOUT THE SYMPOSIUM:
It is well-established that ancient sculpture was painted, and that adding color was a finishing touch of artistic creation, with an immediate impact on ancient viewers. However, many questions remain about the extent of applied color. We do not fully understand the original appearance of most ancient sculptures. Dr. Verri will share insights into how ancient painters created their masterpieces, revealed by his research using visible-induced luminescence imaging. Dr. Verri’s research makes visible pigments that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye, yielding important new discoveries.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER:
Giovanni Verri is a conservation scientist at the Art Institute of Chicago, and a leading researcher investigating the pigments applied to ancient sculptures. He holds a Ph.D in physics from the University of Ferrara, Italy, and an MA in conservation from the Courtauld Institute on Art in London. In 2007, he developed an imaging technique called visible-induced luminescence imaging. Using this new technique, he has mapped the presence of Egyptian blue, a very common blue pigment in antiquity.
SYMPOSIUM SPONSORS:
Centennial Park Conservancy
ADDITIONAL SPONSORS:
The Parthenon, part of Metro Parks & Recreation, would like to thank the following organizations that provide underwriting support for its exhibition and educational programming, including Symposia, through grants and corporate partnerships with Centennial Park Conservancy:
Archaeological Institute of America- Nashville Society, Amazon, the Sandra Schatten Foundation, HCA Healthcare Foundation, Tennessee Arts Commission, Hays Foundation, and Advance Financial Foundation
Individuals can support the Parthenon by making a donation or becoming a member of Centennial Park Conservancy. Learn more.
JOIN OUR NEXT VIRTUAL SYMPOSIUM:
Archaeology & Science (Virtual) October 20 at 10 AM Central
REGISTER HERE>