CLEP Humanities : Sculpture

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for CLEP Humanities

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Analyzing Classical Sculpture

What was the principle material used by sculptors in the Classical period in Greece?

Possible Answers:

Brick

Cement

Marble

Iron

Clay

Correct answer:

Marble

Explanation:

The key feature of ancient Greek sculpture was the monumental size of most of their pieces, as well as the dramatic depiction of heroes and gods. The statues therefore needed to be made of an extremely sturdy and dependable material. Marble proved the most durable and popular material among ancient Greek sculptors not just for the mentioned reasons, but because of its abundance in Greek lands.

Example Question #1 : Nineteenth Century Sculpture

The sculptor Auguste Rodin's style was marked by all of the following EXCEPT __________.

Possible Answers:

the use of classical and mythological themes

a dark psychological perspective

a realistic depiction of the human body

making sculptures out of clay that could work as models for bronze casting

the capture of movement in a sculpture

Correct answer:

the use of classical and mythological themes

Explanation:

Auguste Rodin (1840-1917) was a revolutionary sculptor who helped develop modern art, but he actually saw himself as a traditional craftsman. Rodin would use clay to create bronze molds, and used models. In contrast to his predecessors, Rodin asked models to move so he could capture natural movement and a dark psychological perspective. Rodin also refused to use traditional classical and mythological themes in his work.

Example Question #1 : Identifying Sculptors, Works, And Schools Of Sculpture

The Dying Gaul is a famous Roman piece of art in which medium?

Possible Answers:

Mosaic

Painting

Fresco

Mural

Sculpture

Correct answer:

Sculpture

Explanation:

The Dying Gaul is a statue from the third century BCE and is among the most famous pieces of Roman artwork. The statue is remarkable for its tension and lines in the prone figure, who is slouching into repose from his wounds. Additionally, the face conveys an astonishing amount of pathos and misery, while also showing a perfect form in the figure's body.

Example Question #2 : Identifying Sculptors, Works, And Schools Of Sculpture

Which classical Greek artist is best known for his creation of the statue of Zeus at Olympia and the Athena Parthenos in Athens?

Possible Answers:

Sophocles

Plutarch

Michelangelo

Homer

Phidias

Correct answer:

Phidias

Explanation:

Homer, Sophocles, and Plutarch are Ancient Greek poets and writers. Michelangelo worked in the Renaissance era. Phidias is the only sculptor from the classical Greek era listed.

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