What is the origin of the first sculptures ever made? Where did they originate? What is the true history behind this artistic discipline? A very interesting fact about this art is that, until the Renaissance, the term "sculpture" didn't begin to be used to refer to this activity. Did you know? If you want to learn more about the origin and fascinating history of the art of sculpture, stay tuned! We'll tell you everything you need to know.
Definition of Sculpture
According to the Royal Spanish Academy, a sculpture is the “art of modeling, carving or sculpting three-dimensional figures in some materials” or a “work made by the sculptor.” That is, the Sculpture , considered one of the seven fine arts, is the discipline that consists of creating three-dimensional figures from the action of sculpting or carving different types of materials (stone, ceramic, bronze...).
Origin of the art of sculpture
Sculpture in prehistory
Today, it is not known exactly when the world's first sculptures were made. However, historians suggest that it all began in the so-called Stone Age. In fact, The Venus of Berekhat (230,000 BC) and The Venus of Tan-Tan (200,000 BC), two objects with pre-sculptural forms, are the oldest known stone effigies.
The earliest known sculpture dates back to approximately 35,000 BC and consists of carvings in the form of animals and birds, discovered in two German caves, the Vogelherd and the Hohlensten-Stadel.
Sculpture in the Neolithic Age
During the Neolithic period, the Egyptian pyramids were undoubtedly the most striking form of art. Their burial chambers included all kinds of portable statues and figurines, which led to the creation of new sculptures. It was also during this period that, due to the emergence of cities and public buildings, the demand for all types of art, including sculpture, increased. Thus, art began to be used to represent rulers, the Gods, and their aspirations.
Sculpture in Greek Antiquity
Greek sculpture emerged during the Daedalian Period and developed in three distinct phases. In the first, the Archaic, there was slow but continuous experimentation, and the most prized form of Greek sculpture was the kouros. During the second, the Classical, Greek creativity reached its peak, with sculptors such as Myron and Phidias achieving highly realistic levels in their sculptures. Finally, in the Hellenistic period, the classical realism that had dominated the previous period was replaced by greater expressionism in the works.
Sculpture during the Dark Ages
European sculptors lived in a very "quiet" period, when cities were impoverished and uncultured. Although there was some activity here and there, there was no major artistic movement in sculpture between 500 and 800 AD.
Romanesque sculpture
The revival of sculpture as an artistic discipline resurfaced under Charlemagne I. Despite his short reign, his patronage of the arts was crucial to the revival of European culture. Indeed, numerous Romanesque and Gothic churches were built years later on the foundations of Carolingian architecture.
Already in the 11th century, the success of the Crusades by the Christian Church triggered the construction of new churches and cathedrals, and with it came a wave of commissions for Romanesque sculptures. Sculpture was finally gaining the importance it deserved. Thus, new sculpture and modeling workshops opened up thanks to the demand and the apprenticeship of new master craftsmen.
Gothic sculpture
The new techniques developed from the 12th century onward in the construction of new churches, used in the well-known Gothic architecture, completely transformed their interiors and exteriors. Thus, the new facades and portals were decorated with sculptural reliefs depicting biblical scenes, and the interiors featured numerous statues on their columns, which can still be seen in European churches and cathedrals today.
The exciting art of sculpture
Did you know about the fascinating history of sculpture over the years? It truly is a fascinating art form that, for centuries upon centuries, has witnessed new techniques, different ways of living, changing ideals of beauty, and, thanks to its durability, has given us a wealth of knowledge. The passion sculptors feel when carving each sculpture can be seen in the final result, don't you think? Tell us which sculpture you've seen, no matter what period in history, that caught your eye the most; the one you couldn't stop staring at for a long time. That way, we can all add to our to-do list of trips we have to take just to see them. And, of course, if you have any information you'd like to share with us, don't be shy! We'd love to hear from you in the comments below.
