Ancient Mediterranean objects are now on display in the Neese Gallery at the Wright Museum of Art. This exhibition highlights different mediums that illustrate the wide array of talent and craftsmanship seen in ancient Mediterranean arts and wares. Two prints by the famous Giovanni Piranesi—executed in the 18th century—give the exhibit a more modern touch, and provide a picturesque backdrop for the collection of pottery, sculpture, and glassware.
Many of the ancient artifacts on display were constructed to meet the needs and demands of daily life. Potters and workshops churned out portable lamps in a factory-like system, much like the mass production of today’s flashlights. Glassworkers blew and molded glass into jars, bowls, and bottles which could hold everything from food and wine to lotions and cosmetics. Busts and sculptures embodied emperors and heroes, memorialized the dead, and honored the plethora of gods and goddesses.
The exhibit was curated by Kayla Kramer'11, with additional help and support from the museum staff and students and will be on view for the spring semester. Look out for bodiless busts, nozzles, romantic ruins, and four horses with a chariot. Complementing the exhibit gallery are large plasters casts around the museum of famous classical sculpture and relief.
These stunning reproductions, which include scenes from the Parthenon, were purchased for the museum at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.
The Wright Museum of Art is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.