Art in Crete and Mycenae

Lion gate (Mycenae)

   The islanders of Crete and the Mycenaeans of the Greek mainland developed different but related cul­tures. The works of art they created reflected their customs and beliefs. The magnificent death mask (above), found at Mycenae, was formed from a thin sheet of gold pressed to the face of the dead man. It reminded those who saw it of his likeness and served as a costly and dramatic memorial. The skills of the Mycenaeans are also visible in the enormous structure (right). Two lions are carved at the top of the gateway. Moles near the top of the animals suggest that their heads, now lost, were attached separately.
   To the people of Crete the bull was sacred, figuring in activities of religious significance. It was also used in sport (below). Here men and women are somersaulting over the back of a charging bull.