- Collection
Classical Archaeology Collections (Collection of Antiquities, Sculpture Hall, and Photography Collection)
- Humanities and Social Sciences
The various collections of classical archaeology offer a representative cross-section of the art and cultural history of Greco-Roman antiquity. The impressive ensemble in the Sculpture Hall comprises around 350 mostly life-size plaster casts from museums around the world. Statues and portraits can be viewed under ideal conditions in natural light and from different angles. The extensive collection of originals comprises around 1,200 pieces, including ceramic vessels and terracottas in particular, but also ancient glassware, marble works, and jewelry. A collection of around 260 Greek and Roman coins rounds off the holdings. The collections provide a setting for practical training for students and regular courses, as well as object-related research projects and guided tours for a wider audience.
The Classical Archaeology photo collection comprises around 15,200 large-format original prints mounted on cardboard. These include numerous historical silver gelatin and albumin photographs. Of particular interest are the topographical photographs, as they often show sites that no longer exist today, such as photographs of the Acropolis in Athens during excavations. Many of the photo -cardboards bear handwritten notes that provide additional information. A unique collection consists of around 1,200 photographs from the early 20th century, which the Frankfurt antiquarian Felix Bölte himself took in Greece. In addition to archaeological sites, the photographs also show topographical images and scenes of regional interest.
