Cycladic Culture
The Cycladic Culture refers to the ancient civilization that flourished in the Cycladic islands of the Aegean Sea during the Bronze Age, roughly from the third millennium BC to the second millennium BC. This culture is best known for its distinctive marble figurines, pottery, and the unique way of life developed on these small islands.
History
The Cycladic Culture can be divided into three main periods:
- Early Cycladic I (ECI) - 3200-2800 BC, characterized by the first appearance of marble figurines and the establishment of settlements.
- Early Cycladic II (ECII) - 2800-2300 BC, the peak of the Cycladic culture with advanced craftsmanship in pottery and sculpture.
- Early Cycladic III (ECIII) - 2300-2000 BC, a period of transition where influences from the Minoan Civilization began to appear.
Archaeological Findings
Archaeological sites like Akrotiri on Santorini, Keros, and Syros have provided significant insights into the Cycladic way of life:
- Marble Figurines: These are the most iconic artifacts of the Cycladic Culture. They depict abstract human forms, primarily female figures, with a focus on simplicity and elegance. Their exact use remains a subject of debate, possibly serving as idols, fertility symbols, or grave goods.
- Pottery: Cycladic pottery evolved from simple, undecorated forms to more intricate designs, showing influences from both local traditions and foreign cultures.
- Architecture: Settlements were often built on hilltops for defensive purposes. The houses were typically made from stone and mud-brick, with flat roofs.
- Burial Practices: The dead were often buried in communal graves or individual tombs, with offerings including figurines, tools, and pottery, suggesting beliefs in an afterlife.
Art and Craftsmanship
The Cycladic art, especially the marble figurines, is noted for:
- Use of local white marble, giving a distinctive aesthetic.
- Abstract forms with a focus on geometric simplicity.
- Possible use in religious or ritualistic contexts, although this is still speculative.
Cultural Influence and Legacy
The Cycladic Culture had a significant influence on later Aegean Civilizations:
- Artistic techniques and forms were borrowed by the Minoan Civilization and later the Mycenaean Greece.
- Their cultural practices and trade networks helped shape the cultural landscape of the Aegean.
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