How did the purposes of sculpture and painting differ?

Two influences in particular drove the Romans fully to explore and develop the art of sculpture: the worship and reverence of images, not only of gods and goddesses, but also of dead ancestors, and the recording of ritualistic and triumphant events in bas-relief on pillars, arches, and tombs

As far as we know, paintings were used almost exclusively to cover walls of rooms in houses. These frescoes are brightly coloured, and frequently depict scenes from Greek and Roman mythology.

Landscapes were employed to give the impression of picture windows, while the effect of a garden was often extended and enhanced by landscape frescoes along its boundary walls. We have still-life paintings, too, of dead game birds, fish, vegetables, and other kinds of food.

Introduction
Ancient Rome is famed for her skillful artists producing eternal sculptures and paintings that have mystified generations for centuries. However, speaking personally I feel it is through understanding the different purposes they served the Roman people, that one can truly begin to appreciate their beauty.

The Discussion

Sculpture
Sculpture for Romans was a way of paying tribute and …show more content…
Colourful illustrations usually of Greek and Roman mythology were painted, which made the frescoes more personal to the occupants beliefs in my view. Landscape paintings gave the illusion of more space or a window’s perspective because Roman houses typically didn’t have windows, or they were tiny, light and air circulation was brought in through the opening of the Atrium’s roof as we learnt last week. Therefore paintings played an important role of bringing vibrancy and life inside the home. Wild animal images were also popular, perhaps this was another way making the walls look interesting and to bring a part of the wilderness inside (Kamm,