Introduction: The Long Shadow: Treasures of Ancient Greece (02:40)

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This film presents the transformation of classical art in a modernist context through the examination of five classical pieces.

Aphrodite of Knidos (03:04)

Early in the 2nd century A.D., Hadrian built a pleasure palace outside of Rome. In his procession was a copy of Aphrodite of Knidos, Western art's first female nude sculpture.

Displaying Aphrodite (02:39)

Aphrodite of Knidos' provocative nature comes from viewers not knowing if she is disrobing or putting on a garment. Hadrian displayed Aphrodite in a circular temple.

Variations on the Theme (03:46)

Aphrodite of Knidos inspired dozen variations on the theme. The bathing goddess statue seems alarmed, which heightens the level of trespass felt by the viewer.

The Larrecou (03:18)

In 1506, the Larrecou was unearthed during the reconstruction of Rome. The Larrecou is a representation of intense suffering.

The Renaissance (02:26)

Pope Julius II sent Michelangelo to witness the Larrecou's excavation. The Renaissance saw Greek art rediscovered, celebrated, and reborn for a new generation.

Michelangelo's Inspiration (02:43)

For Michelangelo, the image of the naked body, long excluded from Christian art, fired his imagination. His enthusiasm helped shape European culture.

Imposing Water Vase (02:51)

In Britain, antique became the height of 18th century fashion. Hamilton unearthed an enormous hoard of Greek vases and sold them to the British museum.

Hamilton's Catalog of Discoveries (03:52)

Wedgwood dedicated his life to making ancient wares inspired by Greece. Hamilton's catalog of discoveries inspired Wedgwood to transform these works of art at home in Britain.

Jasperware (05:23)

Wedgwood set out to mass produce Hamilton's designs for profit. Women, increasingly in charge of interior decorating, wanted "more fun" in their aesthetics.

Bonaparte's Spoils of War (02:25)

In the 19th century, the quest for empire gripped Europe. Returning soldiers paraded victory spoils of art stolen from the great collections of Europe by Bonaparte.

Greek Horses (03:57)

The Greek horses of St. Mark's Basilica were Bonaparte's greatest possession. These stallions are the only full team of horses to have survived from antiquity.

The Louvre (03:58)

Bonaparte wanted to make it clear that he belonged to the front rank of history's greatest men. His treasures were brought to the Royal Palace of the French Capital.

Discobolus (02:25)

April 20, 1938, Hitler celebrated his birthday by screening the film "Olympia." The star of the film was a naked statue. The sculpture's perfect classical body entranced Hitler.

Hitler's Glytothek (04:18)

Much of Munich had been remodeled by Ludwig of Bavaria as a new Athens. At its heart was a temple of Greek art called Glyptothek. Hitler wanted Greek art to inform Germany's future.

Race Politics (03:54)

The Discobolus of Myron became the ultimate symbol of Hitler's race politics. The modernists of the early 20th century wanted to turn away from perfected beauty and explore abstract or expressionistic images.

Nazi Corruption (04:08)

Like his Greek predecessors, Thorak was interested in idealizing the human body. His work stands as a reminder of how Greek art was corrupted under the Nazi regime.

Credits: The Long Shadow: Treasures of Ancient Greece (00:42)

Credits: The Long Shadow: Treasures of Ancient Greece