Sumerian Art

Sumerian Art is part of Unit 2 of AP Art History. Sumerian art uses a more realistic approach and is definitely not as abstract as prehistoric art. In fact, it is the one of the first demonstrations of comprehensive narratives (and clear meaning). 

Common Stylistic Characteristics:

• Realistic figures: As previously mentioned, Sumerian art distanced itself from its prehistoric precursors through the incorporation of real people doing actual activities. The Sumerians have worked towards creating some form of anatomical accuracy.

• Negative space: The sculptures were made out of materials like gypsum, so negative space was created. That allowed for a more realistic look, since the negative space was often employed between legs and underneath arms. 

• Wide eyes: Sumerian sculptures are known for their massive eyes. 

• Differences in clothing: People are actually wearing clothing in Sumerian art! Women and men had very different "expected" clothing and features. Men were supposed to have long beards and wear kilts with their chests exposed. Women had to cover at least one shoulder (though it was more common to have one exposed). Nudity wasn't commonly used, since Sumerians reserved it for prisoners and slaves. 

• Mixing of human and animal forms: Sculptures would sometimes contain animal features. For example, it was common for a sculpture to have a body of an animal with a human head attached.

• Emotionless: In AP Art History, emotion wasn't very prominent in art until the Hellenistic period in Greece. The Sumerians were no exception to this rule.