Fragment from the "Treasury of Minyas"

fragment of flowers, plants and classical art

Artist: Unknown
Date: About 1500 B.C.
Location: Library, Stairway

This fragment from the "Treasury of Minyas" at Orchomenos in Greece is an example of the most ancient of Greek arts. The original remains in the interior of the Treasury. The fragment, probably a part of the wall decoration, shows the love for natural objects by the Greeks. Despite our general impression of austerity in classical art, plants and flowers were used to accent and decorate many monuments and buildings. The acanthus leaf, which forms the capital of the corinthian column, is case in point.

Descriptive and historical information about the sculptures compiled by Dr. Douglas O. Eason.