The ancient era for many people is associated with massive white statues of famous people of that time. But why did sculptors sculpt their creations in this color, or did someone try to add bright colors to their work? If a few centuries ago, people could only guess about the motives of the creators of that time, now modern technologies allow you to study statues in detail and get the necessary answers.

Antique era

Historians designate the time period of antiquity from the VIII century BC. according to the 6th century AD This time period begins with the heyday of Ancient Greece, the emergence of the Roman State and ends with their complete decline.

The ancient era plays an important role in the history of the development of mankind, since during it people began to pay great attention to education. Hundreds of philosophers worked tirelessly daily, creating various institutions working in a certain field. Writing, art, sports were actively developing, and most people tried to raise the cultural level. Architecture flourished, thanks to which the first significant objects of that time were built.

Over the centuries, many works of art have been created: chronicles, statues, frescoes, etc.

Why are antique statues white?

Not so long ago, scientists conducted a thorough analysis of several sculptures dating back to the ancient era. They alternated ultraviolet and infrared rays, in turn directing them to the surface.Using modern equipment, they were able to find particles of substances that are components of the paint of the time.

More accurate studies have proved that, in fact, antique statues were originally made in color. When the sculptor finished work with the contours, the process of applying paint to the surface began. Moreover, the artist tried to decorate the statue as detailed as possible. The face, clothes, body and other elements were drawn. As a result, a colored figure was obtained.

Interesting fact: in ancient times, sculptures were decorated, because a simple principle worked - the brighter, the richer. Therefore, the nobles and large landowners tried to make their mansions as colorful as possible.

However, over time and due to weather conditions, the paint from the statues peeled off and completely disappeared from the surface. Interestingly, before the era of classicism, works of art reached white, and the sculptors who lived at that time did not paint on their statues, since they considered this approach canonical.