Tanagras

myminifactory

Human: Artistic endeavors flourished in the Hellenistic age as the Greek world expanded, opening up new markets to skilled craftsmen and their patrons. The increased availability of precious materials like gold, silk, and ivory created a growing demand for expertise in working with them. Alexandria in Egypt emerged as a hub for producing luxury goods, including exquisite glassware, faience, metalwork, and sculpture. Small-scale sculptures crafted from marble, bronze, and terracotta were produced throughout the Hellenistic world, with some pieces traveling far from their origin to promote the widespread dissemination of new subjects and styles. It can be challenging to determine whether a particular small-scale sculpture was intended for sacred or secular use, as similar objects have been discovered in tombs, sanctuaries, and private residences. During the Hellenistic period, numerous innovative types of terracotta figures were created, many inspired by larger-scale sculptures. These statuettes represented the wealthy elite, clad in the latest fashions, and often preserved their vibrant original colors. They were mass-produced using a mold-making technique, allowing for the repetition of popular types with occasional variations added for diversity. These figurines served both domestic and funerary purposes. The statuettes are commonly referred to as "Tanagras" due to the numerous examples discovered in Tanagra, a city located in central Greece. However, these figures were crafted in workshops throughout the Mediterranean region, and the type of clay used can help distinguish one regional workshop from another. Additional examples of this type of statuette can be found in galleries 69 and 73.