Non-Western Art Critique

Kaitlyn Graf

Modern Culture and the Arts

Professor Bomboy

28 February 2016

Non-Western Art Critique

            For almost every culture, art is a way to tell stories, document history, and express emotion. Some pieces of art were meant for display, while others had practical uses, such as pottery and jewelry. Non-western art is art that comes from Africa, Asia, and Native America (North and South.) One example of art from South America that held a practical use was the Peruvian wooden beaker or kero. These elaborately painted beakers, which today can be looked at as pieces of art, were originally used for ceremonial purposes. In this paper, I will start by discussing the use of elements and design principles in this object. Then I will talk about the provenance of this piece of art. Also, I will discuss the function and how it fits into the Peruvian culture. Finally, I will describe my reaction and feelings towards this piece of art.

            The Peruvian kero was a ceremonial beaker that was used in Peru and northeastern Bolivia by the Incas to drink “chica,” which is a fermented beverage that was made from corn (“Pair of Keros”). The kero has a wide opening and a cylindrical shape. Ancient keros were decorated with geometrical shapes and painted with bright reds and yellows. Keros from the Inca-Colonial period were decorated with figurative images, such as the one being discussed in this paper (“Redlist America Latina”). This specific kero from the mid-seventeenth century is adorned with the image of an Inca, a Spaniard, and an African (Encylopaedia Britannica). When looking at the elements of art that are used, black lines were used to outline each of the images on the wooden beaker. This helped to emphasize each of the shapes and figures, and it also helped to draw in the viewer’s attention. Thicker lines of black, red, and tan were used to separate the images on the top of the kero from the bottom. This seems to be a deliberate action by the decorator or painter of the kero to show two different stories or separations in the story. In terms of shape, it is simple to distinguish between the different images on the beaker and what the images are meant to be. The viewer can easily see the three figures and the clothes, headpieces, etc. that they are wearing.

The colors that were used to paint the kero were vibrant and bright, mostly red and yellow, and the sketching was done with black. Polychrome or painting in a variety or several colors was not popular until later periods (“Redlist America Latina”). It can be noted for this specific kero that only about three colors are used: red, black, and tan/yellow. When discussing texture, it cannot be determined from a photograph of the beaker if there is physical texture to the paint, although one can assume it is present. The design on the beaker is very flat and does not show any three-dimensional forms. Each of these elements help to give the viewer a better appreciation for what the creator of the kero was trying to convey.

The principles of design utilize the elements of art to further add to the piece of artwork. When looking at balance, the wooden beaker certainly uses informal balance. The images do not seem off balance, but they are asymmetrical in design. A contrast in color can be noted between the skin tones of the three figures. This helps the viewer to understand that they are not of the same ethnicity. There is also a contrast between their clothing, further showing the difference between the three men. Some repetition can be seen on the clothing, which shows a repeating design. Although all sides of the beaker cannot be seen in this photograph, other examples of Peruvian keros show repeating geometric shapes and patterns (“Pair of Keros”). When viewing this kero, there is not one specific image that is being emphasized. The emphasis seems to be on the figures as a whole. The solid lines that are placed at the top, middle, and bottom of the kero help to display the rhythm or smooth transition between the different sections. This also helps to unify the images that are presented on the kero. There is no sense of disorder between the images on the kero.

The function of the Peruvian kero or wooden beaker was for ceremonial purposes. These ceremonies consisted of religious rituals and burials or celebrations for harvest and planting (Dixon). They were used by the Peruvian people to drink “chica,” which was a fermented drink made from corn (“Pair of Keros”). When a kero was needed for a ceremony, they always came in pairs, with one being offered to the gods. Use of the kero was very important to the Inca culture. The size of the cup that was used showed the status of the individual: one of superior status held a slightly larger cup. The material that was used to make the kero was a sign of class standing as well. Although the particular kero being discussed in this paper is made of wood, keros could be found made of metal and pottery as well. If gold or silver was used, this showed nobility or royalty, while wood or ceramic was used for lesser status (Dixon). Although now the Peruvian kero is viewed more from an artistic point of view, the cultural significance is important to understand and respect.

When I initially viewed this particular Peruvian kero, I was in awe of the bright colors that caught my immediate attention. The red stood out in contrast from the black outlines and other lighter colors. Since the kero was not simple geometric shapes and lines, I could tell that the artist was trying to convey a story to the viewer through the figures that he used. Through further research into the Inca culture, I was able to have an even better appreciation for the piece of art. The fact that the Incas put so much detail and thought into these ceremonial cups shows how important they were to their culture. Each kero is different and presents a different message. The beautiful detail and colors stood out to me and made me want to know more. I truly love the fact that something that is used for the practical purpose of drinking could also be viewed as beautiful artwork.

By looking at the Peruvian kero or ceremonial cup, it is easy to get the sense that it is more than just a cup. These cups held great cultural significance to the Inca people. The bright colors and detailed figures help to present a message or story to the viewer. The elements and principles of design that were utilized to create this kero clearly show the affect that they have on those who view it. I gained a better appreciation and understanding for the Inca culture through viewing and researching the Peruvian kero. I believe the kero is an excellent expression of the Inca culture.

Peruvian wood beaker (kero)

Mid-17th century

Works Cited

Dixon, Christine. "Gold and the Incas." Gold and the Incas. National Gallery of Australia. Web. 27 Feb. 2016.

"Pair of Keros." The Met's Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History. The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Web. 27 Feb. 2016.

Peruvian wood beaker (kero). 1650. The Granger Collection, New York. Encylopaedia Britannica. Web. 26 February 2016.

"Redlist America Latina." Redlist America Latina. Web. 27 Feb. 2016.

Classical Architecture Critique

Hanover Saving Fund Society, 1909

Kaitlyn Graf

Professor Bomboy

Modern Culture and the Arts

7 February 2016

Classical Architecture Critique

            When viewing Classical Greek architecture, it can clearly be seen that the building’s function was not always the chief concern for architects. Greek architecture was beautiful and eye-catching, and it was meant to take hold of your attention. They built temples and buildings that were to be viewed and appreciated like majestic pieces of artwork (Plato “Not Just Another Column”). The architecture of PNC Bank on Carlisle Street in Hanover, Pennsylvania, which was originally known as the Hanover Saving Fund Society in 1909, was undoubtedly influenced by Classical Greek architecture. In this paper, I will be discussing the similarities between Greek architecture and the architecture of PNC Bank in Hanover, Pennsylvania. I will start by talking about the classical order and what the building is trying to convey. Then I will discuss how the classical order affects perception of the building and how it enhances the building’s use. Finally, I will discuss why the order is appropriate for the building’s use.

            With the four commanding columns that grab your attention when first viewing PNC Bank, one can see of clear illustration of how the Greeks influenced the modern architecture. Of the three systems of Classical Greek architectural design (Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian), the bank most clearly reflects the Ionic order (Fiero 123).  When looking at architectural design, the shape and details of the column is what differentiates the three orders. The Ionic column has a base that looks like stacked rings, slender columns, and a capital with volutes, which is the most distinguishing feature of Ionic columns (Brainy Bunny “The Influence of Ancient Greek Architecture”). These features can clearly be identified on the columns of PNC Bank. Another feature of PNC Bank is the entablature at the top of the building. For the Ionic design, the frieze, which is part of the entablature, is a solid design that was either sculpted or left plain. It can be seen on PNC Bank that the architect did not incorporate a sculpted frieze (Brainy Bunny “The Influence of Ancient Greek Architecture”).

I believe that the Ionic order was chosen for this particular building because the design is very commanding. The symmetrical design of the building helps to display the strength and beauty of the architecture. This building is a bank, and I believe that the architects wanted a building that was very prestigious and commanded attention. When looking at the bank, it looks strong and safe, which are qualities that all people want their bank to have.  Just like Greek architects who were creating buildings that were meant to remain standing, this building was clearly meant to have the same effect. According to Gloria Fiero in The Humanistic Tradition on page 122, the Greeks designed architecture that was meant to be used by the living, not the dead. They wanted to create buildings that were to be used and appreciated by the public.

When I was deciding on what building I wanted to critique, I immediately thought of the bank in Hanover on Carlisle Street. It always stood out to me because the architecture is so unique to the area. I remember thinking when I was younger that I always wanted to go inside. Most banks that are built today no longer use aspects of Greek architecture like when the Hanover Saving Fund Society building was first constructed in 1909. I cannot help but be in awe of the towering columns that adorn the front of the building. Looking at the building now with what I have learned about classical Greek architecture, I understand why the Ionic order was used in the design of the building. I can see the strong foundation and unwavering presence that the building possesses. It portrays the message that the bank is not going anywhere and that you can trust in the bank. I think that the style enhances the building because it is very commanding and prestigious. When you step into the bank, you have a sense that you will be treated with the utmost care and respect. The bank is there to keep your money safe, and they want you to feel that you are making the right choice by going to them.

            Many later architects have gained inspiration from the architects of the classical period in Greece. The designs of these later architects definitely could have been further inspiration for the construction of PNC Bank. One architect who was heavily influenced by Greek and Roman architecture was Andrea Palladio. He studied ancient Roman architecture and cultivated a style of architecture that was appropriate for the elegant culture during his time (“Andrea Palladio”). Palladio “…defended symmetry and centrality as the controlling elements of architectural design (Fiero 421).” Andrea Palladio’s appreciation of symmetry could have been an inspiring factor in the symmetrical design of PNC Bank in Hanover, Pennsylvania. Palladio “…provided a model of solemn dignity that would inspire…Neoclassical architects in…America (Fiero 421).” No one can deny the classical dignity that the architecture of the bank presents to the public. Also, when you look at the slanted roof and the Greek-style columns of some of Palladio's work, it is easy to compare PNC Bank with his work. There is no doubt that the later work of Andrea Palladio was influential to the design of PNC Bank.

By taking the time to look at many of today’s buildings, there are countless examples of the influential architecture of the Greeks. PNC Bank on Carlisle Street in Hanover, Pennsylvania is just one example that still stands proudly today. Through this paper, I was able to present the similarities between Classical Greek architecture and the modern architecture of PNC Bank. I talked about the classical order that was used, the Ionic order, and what the building was trying to communicate to the public. Also, I discussed how the Ionic order affects the perception of the building and how it enhances the building’s use. Finally, I talked about why the Ionic order was appropriate for the building’s use. It is clear that the architecture of PNC Bank was heavily influenced by Classical Greek architecture. From the volutes at the top of each column to the symmetrical design, the architecture of PNC Bank still demonstrates strength and instills trust in the public that use it today. 

PNC Bank, Present Day

Hanover, PA

PNC Bank

"Caged Lion"

Works Cited

"Andrea Palladio." Encyclopedia of World Biography. 2004. Encyclopedia.com. 7 Feb. 2016 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

Brainy Bunny. "The Influence of Ancient Greek Architecture." HubPages. 03 Nov. 2012. Web. 06 Feb. 2016.

Fiero, Gloria K. The Humanistic Tradition. 6th ed. Vol. 1. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2011. Print.

Hanover Savings Bank on Carlisle Street. 1909. Clausen Collection, Hanover. Our Town. Web. 6 Feb. 2016.

Plato. "Not Just Another Column." Classical Wisdom Weekly. 28 January 2013. Web. 06 February 2016.

visualrealia. “Hanover’s Caged Lion.” Photograph. Visual Realia. 10 May 2015. Web. 05 February 2016.