How Do You Spell TANAGRA FIGURINE?

Pronunciation: [tanˈaɡɹə fˈɪɡjʊɹˌiːn] (IPA)

Tanagra figurine is a type of small sculpture that originated from the ancient Greek city of Tanagra. The spelling of this word is Təˈneɪɡrə fɪɡjʊˈriːn. The first part "Tanagra" is pronounced as Təˈneɪɡrə with the emphasis on the second syllable. The second part "figurine" is pronounced as fɪɡjʊˈriːn with emphasis on the first syllable. The IPA phonetic transcription system helps to accurately represent the sounds of words and helps to understand their pronunciation accurately.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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TANAGRA FIGURINE Meaning and Definition

  1. A tanagra figurine refers to a small, finely crafted statue made from terracotta during the Hellenistic period in Ancient Greece. It derives its name from the ancient city of Tanagra, located in Boeotia, Greece, where the majority of these figurines were discovered.

    Typically measuring between 10 to 20 centimeters in height, tanagra figurines are known for their delicate craftsmanship and intricate details. They depict various scenes from everyday life such as women engaging in mundane activities like playing musical instruments, holding fans, or arranging their attire. Other common motifs include graceful dancers, elegant goddesses, and mythological figures.

    These figurines were usually molded using molds, and then individually finished by skilled artists who added the finer details using paints or pigments. Though primarily made from terracotta, some figurines also incorporated elements of marble or stone for added embellishment.

    Tanagra figurines played a significant role in the social and cultural life of Ancient Greece. They were often displayed in households, temples, and tombs, serving as votive offerings or decorative items. Due to their mass production and affordability, these figurines gained popularity among all social classes, allowing individuals to own and appreciate art in their everyday lives. Today, tanagra figurines serve as valuable archaeological artifacts, providing insights into ancient Greek art, aesthetics, and social customs.

Etymology of TANAGRA FIGURINE

The term "Tanagra figurine" comes from the town of Tanagra in Boeotia, Greece, where these types of figurines were first discovered. The name "Tanagra" itself is believed to have originated from the ancient Phoenician word "Danaq", which means "merchant" or "trader". The town of Tanagra flourished during the Hellenistic period (4th to 1st centuries BCE) and became known for its production of small, molded clay figurines. These figurines were often purchased by merchants and travelers as souvenirs, leading to their association with the name of the town where they were made. The term "Tanagra figurine" is now used to refer to any small, molded clay figurine from the Hellenistic era, regardless of where it was actually produced.