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Art Quote by Jane Ellen Harrison

“I mention these ritual dances, this ritual drama, this bridge between art and life, because it is things like these that I was all my life blindly seeking. A thing has little charm for me unless it has on it the patina of age. Great things in literature, Greek plays for example, I most enjoy when…” quote by Jane Ellen Harrison
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““I mention these ritual dances, this ritual drama, this bridge between art and life, because it is things like these that I was all my life blindly seeking. A thing has little charm for me unless it has on it the patina of age. Great things in literature, Greek plays for example, I most enjoy when behind their bright splendours I see moving darker and older shapes.””

Jane Ellen Harrison

About This Quote

Source Book: The Ritual Drama of Greek Tragedy, 1925

She values art that shows age and depth, where beauty is layered with history and darker meaning.

In simple terms: Art must show age and hidden depth.

Key Takeaway

Seek works with history and hidden layers.

Themes

art history depth beauty

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

analytical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • museum visits
  • literature study
  • theatre appreciation
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

Aesthetics cultural memory symbolism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does age enhance a work's meaning?
  • What hidden layers do you notice in favorite art?
A Different Perspective

Older works may be less accessible to modern audiences.

3.9 out of 5 (8 ratings)

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