Artist: Greek unknown 

Title: Odysseus & the Seirenes

Date: ca 500- 480 BC

Medium: pottery

Current location: British Museum

Source: theoi.com

1. -Two bird like creatures perch on the tops of the boat on each side, and a third swoops down toward the boat. 

-Odysseus is tied to the mast. 

-A leader commands his rowers. 

-The piece takes place at night.

2. Analysis of Elements of Art/ Principles of Design

Line: Primarily in this piece the lines are horizontal. The artist utilizes parallel diagonal lines to create oars. Different types of lines create pattern throughout this piece. 

Color: The artist only utilizes four colors in this piece. It’s safe to assume this is due to the lack of resources at the time the piece was created. However, these colors symbolize the night sky and its stars, the hue of water late at night, and the the color of the ship and its passengers represents their union. 

Contrast: The boat and the night sky contrast in color. The lightness of the boat and the dark color of the sky. 

Emphasis: This piece places emphasis upon the center of the boat. Within the center of the boat the viewer sees Odysseus tied to the mast of the boat, and a bird maiden swooping down toward the boat. 

Movement: The artist has many elements going on in the piece which draw the viewers eye to these elements, Odysseus and the bird maiden, in the center. 

Pattern: Viewers see many types of patterns in this piece. The wings of the bird, the bottom of the ship, and the right edge of the piece all utilize line to create pattern. 

Proportion: The bird maidens appear to be almost as large as the boat itself which give them a sense of importance to the piece.

3. Interpretation

The art expresses the struggle of Odysseus. Lines sharp from Odysseus’s draw and taut lines connecting him to the pole portray his pleit. These principles cause the viewer to feel tension. Personally, I’m uncertain over whether the Sirene seems to be swooping down to rescue Odysseus from those who have him captive on the ship, or the Sirenes control those who have Odysseus held hostage in the ship. 

4. Judgement 

I am drawn to this work because of the ship’s mast. It’s grandness immediately attracted my attention, and the rolled up sail and Odysseus tied to the mast create interest. I believe the artist successfully conveyed the content. The artist successfully used elements to convey their intent.