Spirit of Greece, Heraklion (2025)

15/07/2024

The Minoan Griffin is a captivating symbol of ancient Crete, often depicted in vibrant frescoes from the Bronze Age civilization.

This mythical creature, combining the body of a lion with the head and wings of an eagle, symbolize power and protection.

The most famous depiction is found in the Throne Room of the Palace of Knossos, showcasing the artistic sophistication and cultural significance of the Minoan civilization.

The griffin’s majestic imagery offers a glimpse into the rich mythology and artistic achievements of one of history’s earliest advanced societies.

This is a 100% hand made & hand-painted ceramic by Vassilis Politakis. You can find this piece in our store:
Papa Alexandrou 4, Heraklion, Crete, Greece

03/06/2024

In May 2024 Vassilis Politakis teamed up with Professor Caspar Meyer from the Bard Graduate Center in New York to produce pottery imitating metal vessels of the Archaic and Classical period, using ancient materials and techniques.

The vessels were fired in Vassilis’ Minoan type kiln in Kyparissi, Crete. The resulting gloss showed a beautiful greenish iridescent sheen resembling oxidized bronze.

29/05/2024

Chronological table from 5.000 BC to 323 AD.

Excerpt from the book "Herakleion Museum - Illustrated guide by J.A Sakellarakis".

From the Neolithic Era to the Graeco-Roman Period.

You can find this book in our store:
Papa Alexandrou 4, Herakleion, Crete, Greece

$Hand-painted ceramic jewellery box by Vassilis Politakis, depicting a fraction of "The Blue Ladies" fresco.The "Blue La...$

27/05/2024

Hand-painted ceramic jewellery box by Vassilis Politakis, depicting a fraction of "The Blue Ladies" fresco.

The "Blue Ladies" fresco is a striking example of Minoan art, originating from the Neopalatial period around 1500-1450 BCE. Unearthed at the Palace of Knossos on Crete by Sir Arthur Evans in the early 20th century, this fresco fragment depicts elegantly dressed women with elaborate hairstyles and vibrant blue garments. Currently displayed in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the "Blue Ladies" fresco exemplifies the Minoans' advanced artistic skills and their use of vivid colors and dynamic compositions. The portrayal of the women, with their expressive faces and detailed attire, offers a glimpse into Minoan fashion and the social importance of such figures in their society.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the "Blue Ladies" fresco holds significant cultural and symbolic value. The women are believed to be part of a larger scene, possibly participating in a ritual or social event, indicating the central role of women in Minoan ceremonial life. The use of blue, a color often associated with divinity and the sea, might suggest a connection to Minoan religious or mythological themes. The intricate depiction of the women's hairstyles and clothing not only highlights the Minoans' attention to detail but also reflects their societal norms and the elevated status of women within their community. As a result, the "Blue Ladies" fresco remains a captivating artifact that provides insight into the sophisticated and vibrant world of the Minoans.

You can find this collection in our store:
Papa Alexandrou 4, Heraklion, Crete, Greece

21/05/2024

The Malia Bee Pendant is a breathtaking piece of Minoan jewelry dating back to approximately 1700-1550 BCE.

It was discovered near the ancient Minoan town of Malia on the island of Crete. The pendant, created by skilled Minoan goldsmiths, is crafted from gold and features a pair of bees, or wasps, arranged symmetrically around a drop of honey. This detailed depiction symbolizes fertility and the natural harmony of the Minoan culture.

Today, the Malia Bee Pendant is exhibited at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum in Crete, where it continues to be admired for its intricate craftsmanship and cultural significance.

You can find this gold-plated silver 925 copy in our store:
Papa Alexandrou 4, Heraklion, Crete, Greece

20/05/2024

Theseus killed the Minotaur to end the terror inflicted upon Athens by the creature.

The Minotaur, a monstrous half-man, half-bull, was kept in a labyrinth on the island of Crete, created by the ingenious craftsman Daedalus. This beast was the result of a curse by Poseidon on King Minos of Crete, who failed to sacrifice a bull to the god. As punishment, Minos' wife, Pasiphae, fell in love with the bull, leading to the birth of the Minotaur. To appease the creature and avoid its wrath, Minos demanded a periodic tribute of seven young men and seven young women from Athens to be sent into the labyrinth, where they would be devoured by the Minotaur. Theseus, the heroic prince of Athens, volunteered to be one of the tributes with the intention of killing the Minotaur and ending the suffering of his people.

The successful slaying of the Minotaur by Theseus was made possible through a combination of bravery, intelligence, and assistance. Upon arriving in Crete, Theseus won the favor of Minos' daughter, Ariadne, who fell in love with him and decided to help him. She gave Theseus a ball of thread, which he used to navigate the complex labyrinth. Tying one end at the entrance, he unspooled the thread as he ventured deeper into the maze. When he encountered the Minotaur, Theseus fought and killed it using a sword, which, according to some versions of the myth, was given to him by Ariadne. After the battle, Theseus followed the thread back to the entrance, successfully escaping the labyrinth. This victory not only liberated Athens from the burden of the tribute but also established Theseus as a celebrated hero and a symbol of bravery and ingenuity.

You can find this hand-painted collection of the classic & archaic periods in our store:
📍Papa Alexandrou 4, Heraklion, Crete, Greece

13/05/2024

Kamares ware is a distinctive style of Minoan pottery dating back to the Bronze Age on the island of Crete, around 2000-1700 BCE. These ceramics are renowned for their vibrant colors, intricate designs, and fine craftsmanship. The Kamares style is characterized by its dark-on-light color scheme, with floral and marine motifs painted in white, red, yellow, and sometimes blue on a dark background.

The eggshell cups, in particular, are some of the most iconic pieces of Kamares ware. These cups are incredibly delicate, featuring walls almost as thin as the shell of an egg. They were likely used for ceremonial or ritual purposes, showcasing the artistic and technical prowess of Minoan potters.

Step back in time to the ancient Minoan civilization with this fine museum copy of the Kamares style eggshell cup. Handmade by Vassilis Politakis with care and attention to detail, each cup embodies the elegance and artistry of the Bronze Age. Decorated with floral and marine designs, this cup faithfully captures the spirit of the original while offering a piece of history for your home or collection.

You can find our Kamares Style collection in our store:
Papa Alexandrou 4, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.

12/05/2024

Oxydized bronze bull made by hand with casting in temperatures over 1,000 degrees Celsius (1,832 Fahrenheit), and how it might have appeared back in the Minoan period.

You can find our oxydized bronze collection in our store:
Spirit Of Greece: Papa Alexandrou 4, Heraklion, Crete, Greece

08/05/2024

🏺🎨 Exploring the beauty of Minoan art!
Inspired by the intricate designs found on Minoan pottery and frescoes, Vassilis Politakis crafted this clay animal sculpture.
The first image captures the intricate details of his handmade & hand-painted creation, while the second showcases a depiction of how this creature might have appeared in the ancient Minoan world.

You can such pieces in our store in Heraklion!
📍 Papa Alexandrou 4, Heraklion, Crete, Greece

06/05/2024

Bull Leaping / Tavrokathapsia

Fresco depicting two young girl athletes in front and behind the bull and a young male athlete attempting the dangerous jump on to the bull's back.

Knossos, Final Palatial Period 1450 - 1400 BC.

Hand-painted copy made on plaster.

You can find this unique piece in our store:
Papa Alexandroy 4, Heraklion, Crete, Greece

04/05/2024

New arrival in our store! 👕
Quality T-shirts produced in Crete📍
✔️ Skin Friendly
✔️ Non Toxic
✔️ Discharge Screen
✔️ Waterbased Inks

03/05/2024

🔆Good day from Heraklion, Crete!
Our family store is open for the summer season! Every day from 10:00 to 20:00!
Many new unique pieces from Vassilis Politakis' hands and from many more greek talented artists!
- Giorgos & Popi

Spirit of Greece

15/07/2024

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29/05/2024

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