Key points
- Ancient Greeks international exhibition comes to WA
- The selection of almost 180 works was loaned by the British museum
- Many are showcased for the first time in Australia
A total of 178 exhibits are on display under the thematic of competition explored through sports, politics, drama, music and warfare.
It is one the largest selections of Greek artefacts loaned by the British Museum, with materials covering from the sixth to the first centuries BCE and many of which have never been seen before Down Under.
They include gold jewellery, iconic black and red ceramics with finely drawn depictions of athletes, gods and citizens, as well as stunning marble and terracotta statues, weapons and coins among others.
Standing out are some of the sculptures that once adorned the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (present day Bodrum, Turkey) - one of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
WA’s Culture and the Arts minister David Templeman said it was fitting for the renowned collection to be the first international touring exhibition in the newly established WA Museum Boola Bardip.
"I encourage all Western Australians to visit this exhibition and explore Ancient Greek culture and lives through these magnificent and rare objects," he said.
Following a 12-month COVID delay, the exhibition Ancient Greeks: Athletes, Warriors and Heroes opens its doors to the public on Sunday 20 June and is on display until 7 November 7.
