THATMuse

The wandering museum: El Prado in Geneva

There is a certain capriciousness to most things and the success or failure of art exhibitions is one of them. The Nazis experienced this first hand when they simultaneously organized the Degenerate Art Exhibition and The Great German… Read More

The Tomb of Meketre: Insight to Ancient Egyptian Burials

Type of Tomb This tomb belonged to Pharaoh Mentuhotep’s chancellor, Meketre.  The tomb of Meketre was a common burial tomb used at the time for officials, a rock-cut tomb. Just as it sounds, the structure of the tomb… Read More

Ancient Greek Art: Black and Red Figure Pottery

Learn about the unique process behind creating black and red figure pottery from ancient Greece!

Eras of Greek Art: Pottery Edition

The Different Eras of Greek Pottery When you first think of ancient Greece, what do you think of?  Do you think of great mythological stories of wondrous adventures as told through intricate pottery depicting these great scenes?  Greek… Read More

The Statue of Gudea & the Art of Serenity

It’s not always easy to be the epitome of serenity and piety. Yet, Sumerian ruler Gudea worked hard to portray these qualities. He even immortalized his calm image in stone! Let’s look at this peaceful Statue of Gudea.  

Meddling with Memling’s Portinari Portrait

Today we’ll focus on the marvelous Hans Memling. This Netherlandish fellow became active in 1465 in Bruges where he was an artistic sensation! He created many altarpieces and portraits for wealthy patrons. Memling’s Portinari portrait is one such notable work. Alongside discussing wealth, status, and religion, I’ll unveil the paintings missing piece,… Read More

Mannerism and Masks: Bronzino’s Portrait of a Young Man

Bronzino, a mannerist artist, delighted in creating witty paintings with hidden, complex meanings. Bronzino’s Portrait of a Young Man contains many clues alluding to the young man’s identity, you just have to look closely! So, hone your inner Sherlock Holmes and let’s unmask… Read More

Infamous Roman Emperors: Caligula the Cruel

Warning! The reign of Roman Emperor Caligula involves a descent into murder and madness! I don’t know about you but I think it’s time to put Caligula on trial and uncover his many transgressions.

Death, Burials, & Funerary Vases: The Ancient Greek Way

Do you know how the Ancient Greeks dealt with death? Start by looking back to the Geometric period where there’s Hades’ Underworld, elaborate burial rituals, and detailed ancient Greek funerary vases like the terracotta krater! 

Hermaphrodite: Boundless Beauty

Two forms becoming one is Hermaphrodite. With roots in ancient Greek mythology, the tale of Hermaphrodite relates to modern discussions of gender identity and, through sculptural depictions, this figure becomes a beautiful ambiguity everyone can experience.   

Houdon’s Winter Wonderland

Brrrrr, winter sure is in full swing! At the very least, Jean Antoine Houdon’s Winter sculpture definitely sets the winter-esque mood. It’s an all in one allegorical and sensual piece that just makes you want to get away from the cold. So, curl up next to a fireplace with… Read More

Temple of Dendur: Stories Carved in Stone

Every building has a story especially the Temple of Dendur, an ancient Egyptian structure. The temple started as a place of ritual and a colorful home to deities. It went from almost drowning to being disassembled and moved across an ocean. Now, it is admired as a piece of art with the occasional… Read More