The Diffusion of Classical Art in Antiquity

The exploration of Greek art as perceived by non-Greek cultures reveals a complex interplay of acceptance and resistance across various regions, from Britain to China, between the eighth century BCE and early CE. John Boardman, a renowned archaeologist, investigates how these images were received, noting their success in places like Italy contrasted with their limited assimilation in regions with strong local traditions. In cultures such as the Buddhist east, Greek art inspired new styles, prompting reflections on the broader implications of image interpretation and cultural exchange.