Bronzeworkers in the Athenian Agora

The prominence of the Temple of Hephaistos, Greek god of metalworkers, situated on a hill to the west of the Agora, reflects the esteem in which bronzeworkers were held by the Athenians. Although many of the objects these craftsmen produced have now been melted down, the statues, lamps, and vessels that remain testify to the high standards of their craftsmanship. As well as illustrating some of the surviving finished products, the author discusses the techniques used to cast bronze and the level of skill involved in producing complex metal statuary.

Carol C. Mattusch is professor of art history at George Mason University.