The Etruscans

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The Etruscans

• Founders of Italian Culture

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Etruscan Unit Concepts

• 1. The Etruscans greatly influenced Roman art.
• 2. Many architectural features thought to be
  Roman originated with the Etruscans.
• 3. The Romans got their emphasis on realism and
  practicality from the Etruscans.

3
Historical Background

• Some historians arent sure where the Etruscans
  came from. Others think that they came from
  Ionia and, therefore, had some strong Greek
  influence. What we do know is that they settled
  in Northern and Central Italy.
• 2200 B.C. to 509 B.C. (Lived with Romans from
  800 B.C. to 509 B.C.)

4
Life in the City-State

• Etruscans lived in city-states, much like the
  Greek polis.
• Their cities were defended by brick
  fortifications.
• Tarquinia was their capitol city.
• Their homes were built of brick and wood, so
  nothing remains. We know what they look like
  because models were built and placed in tombs.

5
Porta Augusta, Perugia

• City gate. This is why it is so well-fortified
  and strong.
• What elements or architecture do you see here
  that are new?
• What are echoes of Greek architecture?

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Roundels
arch
Jambs
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Gifts of the Etruscans

• Arches and Vaults

vocabulary
barrel vault Cross barrel vault
groin vault
arch A. Keystone B. voussoirs
Arcade
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Etruscan Temples
Greek Temple similarities and differences.
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Tumulus of Cerveteri
Tomb of Reliefs
Tumulus
Etruscan belief in the afterlife is similar to
Egypt in that they felt that the tomb would be an
eternal home for the dead. To make them more
comfortable pots and other items found in the
home are carved into the walls.
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Etruscan Painting
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The Revelers, Tomb of the Leopards
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Tomb of the Lioness

• Found in Tarquinia. Well-preserved paintings in
  tombs. Show that just beyond the end of life is
  a bright, happy world in death.
• Notice the active role of women.

How would you describe these figures? What
culture does this remind you of?
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Etruscan Sculpture
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Sarcophagus from Cerveteri

• Although most Etruscans preferred cremation, some
  used sarcophagi. Rather than seeing two solemn,
  gloomy people, this husband and wife are happy,
  smiling, almost inviting to the living.

Made entirely of Terra Cotta. Incredible!
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Apollo of Veii

• What Greek time period and influence do you see?
• Made of Terra Cotta.

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She-wolf of the capitol
The suckling Romulus and Remus were added in the
Renaissance when this was moved to Capitoline
Hill.