Aldo Setaioli
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Abstract
AI
AI
The paper discusses the origin and cultural significance of a gilt silver ewer housed in the Guyuan museum, dating back to before 569 AD. It explores various scholarly perspectives on its production, with some attributing it to Persian artisans under the Sasanian dynasty, while others suggest a synthesis of Roman and Sasanian styles. Notably, the paper highlights the use of Hellenistic motifs by local Bactrian silversmiths, alongside the potential misinterpretations of these motifs by artists distanced from their original cultural meanings.
FAQs
AI
What evidence supports the ewer's origins in Bactria versus Persia?
The prevailing view, supported by Wu and others, is that the ewer was crafted in Bactria, showcasing local silversmith techniques and motifs reminiscent of Hellenistic art. This conclusion, reaching consensus by scholars like Luo, is bolstered by its distinctive Greek features on the embossed figures.
How do the figures on the ewer reflect Greek artistic influences?
The six figures around the ewer embody Hellenistic characteristics, such as straight noses and specific attire, reflecting artistic fidelity to Greek models. This includes the depiction of Paris, traditionally shown courted by Aphrodite, yet lacking crucial context from the original myth.
Why might Gandhāran artists misinterpret Greek motifs in their works?
Gandhāran artists may have reproduced Greek motifs without fully grasping their original significance due to geographical and temporal distance from Hellenistic culture. Their interpretations often led to artistic inaccuracies, as illustrated by scenes where critical characters and symbolism were misidentified.
When was the ewer definitively crafted before, according to historical evidence?
The precise crafting date of the ewer remains unresolved, but it is confirmed to exist prior to 569 AD, the year of Li Xian′s death. This places its creation in a context where Greek artistic forms were still influential.
What insight does the portrayal of characters reveal about the ewer's narrative context?
The ewer's depictions signal pre-Trojan War events through characters like Paris and Helen, but lack clarity in their relationships. The artistic choices suggest a misunderstanding of the mythological narrative, as noted by the absence of essential figures from the original story.
References (13)
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