The main function of architecture, painting and monument sculpture until approximately 320 BC. it was of a public character, dealing with religious affairs and the most important civil events, such as sporting competitions. Citizens only used the plastic arts in the decoration of their tombs and the decorative arts for the production of objects for private use. The household trousseau contained a large number of painted terracotta pots with a sophisticated finish; the wealthiest families had bronze vessels and mirrors. In many objects produced in terracotta and bronze there were small figures and bas-reliefs.
Most of the constructions carried out by Greek architects were made in marble or limestone, in addition to wood and tiles, used in the covering of buildings. Sculptors worked marble and limestone, modeled clay and cast their works in bronze. The great votive statues were carved in bronze sheets or in wood covered with gold and ivory. Sometimes the heads or outstretched arms were performed separately and later joined to the torso. Stone and clay sculpture was fully or partially painted with bright pigments. Greek painters put pigments in water to paint large murals or decorated vessels. The potters shaped their pots on potter's lathes and, when they were dry, they polished, painted and baked them.
Greek Civilization
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