Greece is a country with great history. Its civilization flourished early on and thus cast its light all over the world. As the years went by, Greece became a beacon of philosophy, art and culture. Fundamental ideas that have shaped modern society have their roots in the Athenian philosophers. At the same time, classic architecture and drama, medicine and astronomy, these are all elements defining the world as we speak. And they all lead back to Greece. So how could there not be Greek exhibits in the world’s top museums?
This is how the world works. Great explorers have reached a place blessed with such beauty, depicted both in the landscapes and the forms of art. And these great men wished to convey the message to the world that Greece is unique. A glimpse at the marvels of civilization would be mesmerizing for the world out there. So many exhibits traveled far away and found their way to the world’s most famous museums and art galleries. Let’s have a look at some of them, shall we?
Parthenon Marbles
They are located in the British Museum of London. In fact, there is an entire section in the museum dedicated to the Greek world in antiquity. This is a collection of sculptures, mostly belonging to the Parthenon. A true landmark of the world, the Parthenon is one of the most photographed sites. Great debate has been raised as to whether or not Parthenon marbles belong to their home in Athens. An increasing part of the world demands their safe return. But either way, millions of people witness the magnitude of classic architecture by Phidias.
Laocoon and His Sons
Moving on with the finest Greek exhibits in the world’s top museums, the Vatican is next. In its museum, you will find innumerable impressive exhibits. Among them, Laocoon and his sons. A splendid representation of the myth about Laocoon, a priest in Troy. He warned the people not to accept the Trojan Horse and received divine punishment for that. Athena and Poseidon, the Olympians Gods favoring the Greeks, sent serpents that strangled Laocoon and his two sons.
The Aphrodite of Milos
Most people know this famous exhibit as Venus de Milo. An ancient sculpture presumably by Alexandros of Antioch and not Praxiteles. It is 203 centimeters, which means that visitors at the Louvre Museum are not only stunned by its beauty. This is an iconic exhibit, permanently on display at the French museum. As for the mystery behind her lack of arms, who knows? The fact that Aphrodite is arm-less does not deprive her of her charms, though!
Nike of Samothrace
The Winged Victory of Samothrace is another exhibit of Louvre Museum. Made with Parian marble, this is a sculpture of the Hellenistic era. Although its context is still unknown, nobody can argue with the fact that Nike of Samothrace is beguiling. 244 centimeters tall, the sculpture honors the Goddess and the details in its making are simply breathtaking! It most likely pays tribute to a sea battle.
The Harp Player
At the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, a Greek presence makes a huge impression. Concluding our list with some of the most popular Greek exhibits in the world’s top museums, the Harp Player! A fine example of Cycladic art, made of marble. It displays a male figure, sitting on a chair and playing his harp. The details in his hands are amazing and the sculpture dates back to circa 2800 BC!