The
George and Nefeli Giabra Pierides Collection covers a wide range of the history and archaeology of Cyprus, from the Early Bronze Age (2500 BC) to the end of the Mediaeval period (sixteenth century). This chronological succession of the objects has dictated the structuring of the Collection's presentation in the Museum. Designed to state-of-the-art specifications, its purpose is to highlight age-old Greek civilisation at the southernmost extremity of Europe. The whole
Collection, numbering more than 600 items, is exhibited in the Museum. The objects which are not on display in the main show-cases have been collected together in a special case, accessible to researchers and the public.
As one of the most important private collections in Cyprus, it is considered unique in possessing superb examples of Mycenaean pottery in the Pictorial Style (fourteenth - thirteenth century BC). Amphora-shaped and bell-shaped krateres (mixing-bowls), prochoi (ewers), kylikes (cups) and phialai (bowls) are decorated with scenes of chariot-races, boxers and bull-fights, as well as of fishes or birds.
Also included in the Collection are notable examples of the Red Polished Style of the Early and Middle Bronze Age (2500-1600 BC). Of particular interest is the pottery, which takes the shape of animals and the unique anthropomorphic vessel.
The pottery of the White Slip and Base Ring Style of the Middle and Late Bronze Age (1600-1050 BC), which gave Cyprus pottery 'international' fame, is represented by fine examples.
Clay figurines were particularly popular in the Geometric (1050-750 BC) and Archaic period (750-480 BC). The Collection contains decorated lampstands, figurines of horsemen and chariots and female and male votary figures.
The Cypriots were always especially fond of pictorial pottery. The vessels of the Geometric (1050-750 BC) and particularly of the Archaic periods (750-480 BC) are typical. The large amphoras in the Bichrome ware and the kylikes decorated with lotus flowers, rosettes and other abstract designs are striking. In the Archaic period, the 'Free - Field style' flourished; in this, human figures, birds, fishes and animals adorn a large part of the vessel's surface.
The richest part of the Collection is made up of sculpture in limestone, dating from the early sixth century BC to the Hellenistic period. The colossal heads and the life-size statue of the 6th century are impressive, as are the statuettes of Heracles and Apollo. The numerous group of small heads and the statuettes of the 'temple - boy' type are important items.
The cylinder seals of the Late Bronze Age (1600-1050 BC), the seals and the jewellery of all periods are examples of remarkable small-scale art and throw light on various aspects of the social history of Cyprus. The coins of the Classical period (480-310 BC) are evidence, inter alia, for the existence of the city-kingdoms of Cyprus.
The glazed ceramics of the mediaeval period (sixteenth century) are fine examples of utensils in everyday use in Cyprus at that period.
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Opening Hours: |
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Monday - Sunday: 10:00-19:00 |
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Address: |
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Bank of Cyprus Cultural Foundation
86-90 Phaneromenis Str.,
1011 Nicosia Cyprus |
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