Unveiling the Secrets of Ancient Greek Sculpture: Olga Palagia's Insights

Ancient Greek sculpture is a treasure trove of artistic achievement, capturing the essence of human form and emotion. Understanding the techniques and tools used to create these masterpieces can offer valuable insights into their creation and significance. Professor Olga Palagia, a leading expert in Classical Archaeology from the National Capodistrian University of Athens, provides a deep dive into the production methods of Greek and Hellenistic sculptures. Her work sheds light on the complex and innovative processes employed by ancient sculptors, including the bronze casting techniques and the innovations of Assyrian King Sennecherib.

Olga Palagia: A Renowned Scholar

Olga Palagia, an acclaimed scholar in ancient Greek sculpture, is known for her comprehensive research and writings on the subject. Her expertise is praised not only by academic circles but also among the general public. Professor Palagia has a well-reputed bibliography available on Amazon, showcasing her dedication to the field. Her articles and books offer a rich understanding of the intricacies involved in the creation of Greek sculptures, making her a go-to source for anyone interested in this fascinating field.

The Mysterious Bronze Casting Techniques

Bronze casting was a critical technology in ancient sculpture, allowing artists to create intricate and durable works. Olga Palagia traces these techniques back to the Assyrian Empire, specifically to the reign of King Sennecherib. This king is known for his architectural and engineering feats, including the construction of massive water systems. Sennecherib's innovations were not just limited to water management but also extended to bronze casting.

Sennecherib is credited with developing bronze casting methods that allowed him to create monumental sculptures weighing up to 30 tons. He is particularly noted for his ability to lift heavy objects using a device he called a 'screw.' This device, which is now known as the 'Sennacherib Screw,' was described by ancient sources such as Diodorus, Strabo, and Philo. These writers provided detailed accounts of the water-lifting machinery and the use of screws to elevate the water and supply it to the hanging gardens in Babylon.

The Inspiration and Legacy of the Hanging Gardens

The hanging gardens of Babylon, a majestic architectural marvel, have inspired awe and wonder for centuries. According to Sennecherib's inscriptions, he replicated this concept by using his 'screw' technology to lift water for the construction of gardens in Nineveh. These gardens, known for their towering walls and lush greenery, were a symbol of the power and ingenuity of the Assyrian Empire. The use of screws in water-lifting was not only a practical necessity but also a testament to the technological advancements of the time.

Following the conquest of Babylon by the Assyrians in 689 BCE, Nineveh became a prominent city and was often referred to as the "New Babylon." This transformation was not just a change in name but a reflection of the cultural and architectural influence of Babylon on Nineveh. The city's immense library and architectural marvels, including the aqueduct at Jerwan, further showcased the sophisticated engineering and artistic prowess of the Assyrians. The aqueduct, made of over two million dressed stones, spanned steep-sided valleys and used waterproof cement, a remarkable feat of ancient engineering.

The Debate Over the Archimedes Screw

The Archimedes screw is a well-known device for lifting water, and it is often attributed to the famous Greek mathematician Archimedes. However, Olga Palagia suggests that this invention might have predated Archimedes by several centuries. In a BBC television program, Professor Dalley, working with a practicing bronze caster, demonstrated that Sennecherib's ideas were feasible even on a grand scale. The biblical description of the Behemoth, a mythical creature mentioned in the Book of Job, may also refer to the bunker hollow water channel (std cast elbrott?) used by Sennecherib in his water-lifting projects.

Conclusion

The study of ancient Greek sculpture extends beyond the appreciation of their aesthetic beauty to the understanding of the technological and innovative capabilities of their creators. Olga Palagia’s work on ancient Greek sculpture not only enriches our understanding of the cultural and historical context in which these sculptures were created but also underscores the fundamental role of technological innovation in the arts. Through her research, we gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the ancient world.