OBJECT DESCRIPTION AND EXPLICATION

due – last class of 4th week length – 3 pages
We have talked and shared ideas about many different works of art in class, probing the visual vocabulary and techniques used in various paintings, drawings,

sculpture and architecture. In addition, we have discussed critical issues involving the historical, social and political context of these objects as they were created.

We also discuss the way objects travel in time as they move from their original location through the art market into a museum or collection; where, when, and who

viewed the object and what meanings it generated for various audiences within specific historic moments and/or cultural contexts.
Your assignment is to select one object created during the studied period (from Prehistory until 500 BCE) and to write a 3 pages paper about it.
1. Choice of object:
Choose an object that you are interested in. Prior to writing your essay, look at the object for an extended period and take notes about every detail you see and

everything you think. Focus on various issues/points that come to your mind that you want to share with readers of your essay.
2. Writing Guidelines:
A. Presentation: Start by identifying the object: name, date, period, type of artwork (painting, sculpture, ceramic, architecture, architectural complex…), material

(stone, marble, bronze, mud bricks…), technique (carving, natural pigments…).
B. Description: Describe the object in details in order to answer the following question: what does the object represent?
C. Meaning: Why, by whom and for what use or purpose was this object created?
D. Context: Explain the historical, social and cultural context in which this object was created. What does the object tell us about the period it was created in?

Why was this object important for its time?
E. Reflection: Where is this object now? (museum, private collection, on site…). Does it have the same meaning than when it was created? If not, why and how

does its new location change its meaning?
F. References: At the end of your paper, mention at least 3 references (books, articles, databases, websites) on which you based your research. Whatever style

you choose for references and citations, please be consistent