Creativity thread

The 'Harpist of Keros'.

Made in Parian marble. Early Cycladic II, 2800-2300BCE.

National Archaeological Museum Athens.

The majority of Cycladic Figurines were designed to lie flat. Musicians like this one are mainly ‘harpists’ and rarely play wind instruments. They were carved in organised workshops equipped with bronze tools.

The ‘harpist’ is seated on an elegant throne. The stringed instrument is a lyre or a harp (trigonon).

The creativity belongs to the sculptor. I took this shot through glass in poor light.

That quite incredible that creativity and art have been part of humanity for so long, and that we actually still have the pieces, even a little damaged, is astounding.

The Museum of Cycladic Art is amazing too. It’s tiny compared to the Archaeological Museum but it has a terrific vibe and a great cafe.

I visited Greece and the cycladic museum in my youth. Then my son went and came back with a figurine for me. I was so happy

B said:

One advantage we now have that we didn't in our youth is that we can see much of the content online.

Oh yes! The content available is amazing now. Also, many artefacts can be viewed in 3D, which in the case of figurines, makes it possible to see important details from angles other than those afforded to in person visitors.

I plan to take time to look at the Bayeux Tapestry online.

ArchaeC said:

My interest in figurines means I visit these places, even though it’s costly to my sensory system.

One advantage we now have that we didn't in our youth is that we can see much of the content online.

I follow museums and art galleries on Instagram and it is always a delight when an item of historic interest pops up in my stream.

ArchaeC said:

My interest in figurines means I visit these places, even though it’s costly to my sensory system.

One advantage we now have that we didn't in our youth is that we can see much of the content online.

I follow museums and art galleries on Instagram and it is always a delight when an item of historic interest pops up in my stream.

B said:

One advantage we now have that we didn't in our youth is that we can see much of the content online.

Oh yes! The content available is amazing now. Also, many artefacts can be viewed in 3D, which in the case of figurines, makes it possible to see important details from angles other than those afforded to in person visitors.

I plan to take time to look at the Bayeux Tapestry online.