Greeks and major powers

The Mediterranean Sea links the major powers in the East. Now on show on the second floor of the Allard Pierson.

Greeks and Great Powers features many masterpieces from the Greek, Etruscan, Near East and Egyptian collections at the Allard Pierson. In this presentation, the curators show the surprisingly numerous links between these cultural regions.

The great powers in the East, Egypt and the Greek city states enjoy intensive contact with each other from 1000 to 335 BC, primarily by sea. The Mediterranean Sea connects the continents of Europe, Africa and Asia. Merchants, colonists and armies travel great distances, increasing both prosperity at local level and outside influence. Developments in science, technology, industry and art travel back and forth.

Many items also reveal major differences between these cultural regions, especially in daily life. Religious traditions and political organization also play a key role.