The Etruscans
Founders of Italian Culture
Etruscan Unit Concepts
1. The Etruscans greatly influenced Roman art.
2. Many architectural features thought to be Roman
originated with the Etruscans.
3. The Romans got their emphasis on realism and
practicality from the Etruscans.
Historical Background
Some historians aren’t sure
where the Etruscans came
from. Others think that they
came from Ionia and,
therefore, had some strong
Greek influence. What we
do know is that they settled
in Northern and Central Italy.
2200 B.C. to 509 B.C.
(Lived with Romans from
800 B.C. to 509 B.C.)
Life in the City-State
Etruscans lived in city-states, much
like the Greek polis.
Their cities were defended by brick
fortifications.
Tarquinia was their capitol city.
Their homes were built of brick and
wood, so nothing remains. We
know what they look like because
models were built and placed in
tombs.
Porta Augusta, Perugia
City gate. This is why it is
so well-fortified and strong.
What elements or
architecture do you see
here that are new?
What are echoes of Greek
architecture?
Roundels
Jambs
arch
Arches
and
Vaults
Gifts of the Etruscans:
vocabulary
barrel vault
arch
A. Keystone
B. voussoirs
groin vault
Cross barrel vault
Arcade
Etruscan Temples
Greek Temple similarities and differences.
Tumulus
Tomb of Reliefs
Tumulus of Cerveteri
Etruscan belief in the afterlife is similar to Egypt in that they
felt that the tomb would be an eternal home for the dead.
To make them more comfortable pots and other items
found in the home are carved into the walls.
Etruscan Painting
The Revelers,
Tomb of the Leopards
Tomb of the Lioness
Found in Tarquinia.
Well-preserved
paintings in tombs.
Show that just beyond
the end of life is a
bright, happy world in
death.
Notice the active role
of women.
How would you describe these figures?
What culture does this remind you of?
Etruscan Sculpture
Sarcophagus from Cerveteri
Although most Etruscans preferred cremation, some used
sarcophagi. Rather than seeing two solemn, gloomy
people, this husband and wife are happy, smiling, almost
inviting to the living.
Made entirely
of Terra Cotta.
Incredible!
Apollo
of
Veii
What Greek time period and
influence do you see?
Made of Terra Cotta.
She-wolf of the capitol
The suckling Romulus and Remus were added in the
Renaissance when this was moved to Capitoline Hill.