Oil painting -> List of Painters -> Aetion

EARLY DAYS:

Aetion (also known as Echion) was an ancient Greek painter who lived in the 5th century BC. He is known as one of the earliest and most important painters in Ancient Greek painting, and his works were highly influential in the development of the art form.

Aetion was born in Thebes, in the Greek region of Boeotia. He was a student of the famous painter Polygnotos, who was an important figure in Ancient Greek painting. Polygnotos taught Aetion the techniques of the art form. Aetion was also influenced by the sculptor Pheidias and his famous works like the Parthenon frieze.

Aetion's earliest surviving works are wall paintings in the Temple of Apollo at Delphi. These paintings depict a series of gods, heroes, and animals and show Aetion's skill as a painter. One of the most famous paintings from this period is the painting of the death of Meleager. It shows Meleager dying on the battlefield, surrounded by his comrades and his mother, who is mourning his death.

Aetion was also known for his vase paintings. He was one of the first painters to use a pottery wheel to create his artworks. He painted a variety of scenes, from battles to animals and gods. He also painted portraits of people, which were highly sought after in Ancient Greek culture.

Aetion also painted a number of murals, some of which survive today. One of the most famous of these is the mural of the Labours of Heracles, which is located in the Temple of Zeus in Olympia. This painting depicts Heracles completing his twelve labours, and it is considered to be one of the earliest and most important examples of narrative painting in Ancient Greece.

Aetion was highly praised during his lifetime and was considered to be one of the most important painters of the 5th century BC. He was particularly admired for his ability to convey emotion in his paintings. His influence on the development of Ancient Greek painting was immense and he is still considered one of the most important figures in the history of the art form.

CAREER:

Aetion was a contemporary of the great Athenian sculptor Phidias. He was a highly skilled painter and was known for his use of light and shadow to create a sense of atmosphere and drama in his works. He painted several large-scale battle scenes, including the Battle of Marathon, and his work was highly acclaimed by his contemporaries.

Aetion's painting of the Battle of Marathon is one of his most famous works. The painting depicts the Athenian army, led by Miltiades, as they fought against the Persians in 490 BC. Aetion used a variety of techniques in the painting, including light and shadow, dynamic composition, and vivid colors to create a powerful and realistic image of the battle.

Aetion was also known for his sculptures, which included statues of gods, heroes, and goddesses. He sculpted a bronze statue of Athena that was placed in the Parthenon. This statue is one of the most famous sculptures of the classical period and is a testament to Aetion's artistic skill.

Aetion was highly regarded by his contemporaries and his works were often used to decorate temples and public buildings. He was also a teacher and his students included the famous sculptor Myron. Aetion's influence can be seen in the works of many of the great Greek sculptors and painters of the classical period.

Throughout his career, Aetion worked on a variety of projects and his works can be found in many museums around the world. His painting of the Battle of Marathon is considered to be one of the greatest works of art from the ancient world and is an example of the skill and talent of this great Greek artist.