Australians will have the opportunity to delve into all things Ancient Greek in a fascinating new exhibition entitled: Ancient Greeks: Athletes, Warriors and Heroes, to be held at the National Museum of Australia (NMA) , Canberra from 17 December 2021 to 1 May 2022.
The exhibition will feature 180 objects which explore the theme of competition through sports, politics, drama, music and warfare.
It will include black and red figured ceramics featuring finely drawn depictions of athletes, gods and citizens; stunning marble statues and reliefs; bronze figurines; weapons and armour; toys and games; fine gold jewellery; and coins.
These objects have never been seen in the Southern Hemisphere before, and will be on show at the NMA for more than four months.
The NMA says artistic, physical and intellectual competition pervaded ancient Greek society, which in turn influenced language, politics, educational systems, philosophy, science and the arts around the world.
NMA director Dr Mathew Trinca said he is delighted that the show, which celebrates sporting prowess in the ancient Olympic Games, will now bookend the rescheduled 2021 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan, after a 12-month delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are thrilled we can finally bring ancient Greeks to east coast audiences after a 12-month delay,” he said. “With COVID-19 still among us and Australians looking for exciting experiences at home, this show really fits the bill.
“I know audiences will be mesmerised by the stories of competition in the ancient Greek world, and by the beautiful depictions of athletes, the ceramics, sculptures, armour and jewellery featured in the show.”
The presentation of this exhibition is a collaboration between the British Museum, Western Australian Museum, National Museum of Australia, and Tamaki Paenga Hira Auckland War Memorial Museum.
