The archaic smile is a term used in art history to describe the enigmatic smile seen on the faces of ancient Greek sculptures. This smile has been a subject of interest and debate among scholars for centuries. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of archaic smile, its origin, and its associations.
Definitions
Archaic smile is a term used to describe the enigmatic smile seen on the faces of ancient Greek sculptures. This smile is characterized by a slight upward curve of the lips, which is seen as a sign of life and vitality. The archaic smile is believed to have been a deliberate artistic choice, intended to convey a sense of idealized beauty and perfection.
Origin
The origin of the archaic smile can be traced back to ancient Greece, where it was a common feature in sculpture and art. It is believed to have originated in the 6th century BC, during the Archaic period of Greek art. The archaic smile was a stylistic choice that was used to convey a sense of idealized beauty and perfection in the human form.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The archaic smile is defined differently in different dictionaries. In the Oxford English Dictionary, it is defined as “a slight, enigmatic smile seen on the faces of ancient Greek sculptures, believed to be a sign of idealized beauty and perfection.” In the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, it is defined as “a smile that is enigmatic and slightly upward-curving, often seen in ancient Greek sculpture.”
Associations
The archaic smile is associated with the idealized beauty and perfection of the human form in ancient Greek art. It is also associated with the concept of life and vitality, as the slight upward curve of the lips is seen as a sign of liveliness and energy. The archaic smile is also associated with the concept of enigma, as it is a mysterious and elusive feature that has puzzled scholars for centuries.
Synonyms
Synonyms of archaic smile include enigmatic smile, mysterious smile, and slight upward curve of the lips.
Antonyms
Antonyms of archaic smile include frown, scowl, and grimace.
The same root words
The root words of archaic smile are archaic, which means old-fashioned or outdated, and smile, which means a facial expression characterized by an upward curve of the lips.
Example Sentences
- The archaic smile on the face of the ancient Greek sculpture conveyed a sense of idealized beauty and perfection.
- The enigmatic smile on the Mona Lisa’s face has been compared to the archaic smile seen on ancient Greek sculptures.
- The slight upward curve of the lips on the statue’s face gave it a sense of life and vitality, reminiscent of the archaic smile seen in ancient Greek art.