Museum of Cycladic Art, Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, Athens
The museum consists of two buildings, one old and one modern. The Stathatos mansion, the old building was built by Ernst Ziller, and you can see it in the photograph above. The building is composed of two wings, nearly symmetrical, connected by the impressive entrance and a cylindrical atrium. The building has many neoclassical characteristics: symmetry, geometrical order, use of ancient Greek and Roman features. The entrance is one of the basic parts of the building, unifying the two wings and giving a character to the building.
A closer look at the entrance - the two Corinthian columns give emphasis to the stairs that lead to the covered part of the entrance.
The museum has an extensive collection of Greek antiquities with special interest in the prehistoric art from the Cyclades islands of the Aegean sea. They also stage temporary exhibitions of modern art.
The entrance hall as seen from the imposing sweeping staircase that leads to the first floor - the body on the floor is part of the exhibition of modern art that is on at present.
The entrance hall leads to a circular room
with an impressive semi-circular window
The glass corridor that connects the two buildings
which also affords a view of the garden.
The newly refurbished restaurant-café
with an interesting ceiling
and lots of plants as a backdrop
a definite improvement.
Leaving the café/restaurant, towards the exit which in this case is the entrance to the modern building
The shop has also been refurbished and is to the right of the entrance of the new building
the room where children's activities take place
Standing by the entrance of the new building and looking at the café/restaurant
and we exit via the modern building, designed by Ioannis Vikelas and erected in 1985.
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I love the look of both buildings, and of the interior of the café with that hanging enclosure. I have received as presents pieces from their shop, but have never visited the museum. It seems to be a fascinating place, reflecting the continuity of art.
ReplyDeleteI remember seeing your photographs from a previous visit to a contemporary exhibition, and thinking how appropriate that they show both the un- explained beauty of the Cycladic art, and the un-fathomable attractions of conceptual art.
Yes, that's it, Olga, you have articulated what this museum is about. Spot on.
DeleteTheir temporary exhibitions are always interesting, even if they are not always to my taste. And it's always a pleasure being in those buildings, particularly now with the new improvements.