The wall-paintings from Akrotiri, Thera
They are distinguished by the originality of their iconography, the freedom in the design and rendering of the figures, and the richness of their colours. Their perfect state of preservation, thanks to their burial in volcanic ash, has allowed the identification of several different artists working within a Theran tradition but under strong Cretan influence. The painter of the ‘Boxing children’ and of the ‘Antelopes’ displays a characteristic simplicity and austerity which are balanced with grace and vitality in the design of the figures. The painter of the ‘Spring’ fresco and of the ‘Crocus gatherers’ is distinguished by the freedom and spontaneity of his compositions, a greater attention to naturalism and detail, an almost photographic rendering of fleeting moments and a profuse use of colour.