Theodore Poulakis: A Journey to Traditional Greek Art

by Mystik Maze — 2023-04-08 in Ancient Wisdom

Theodore Poulakis, the father of the Heptanese School, takes us on a journey of traditional Greek art.

Reel back in time with the magnificent work of Theodore Poulakis, the father of the Heptanese School, and one of the most talented painters to emerge from Venetian Crete during the Renaissance era. Poulakis was a master of his craft and a trailblazer in his own right. Alongside his contemporary, Emmanuel Tzanes, he was one of the leading lights of the Cretan School, until the war with the Ottomans forced him to flee to Corfu.

Poulakis’ work is a testament to the power and beauty of the Venetian School, and over 130 of his paintings have survived to this day, scattered throughout the world. But his influence stretches far beyond his prolific output, as he played a key role in the transition from the traditional maniera greca to the more refined and sophisticated style of the Heptanese School.

From his birth in Chania Crete to his time in Venice, where he was a member of the Quaranta council, Poulakis’ life was one of passion and creativity. He signed a six-year contract to teach painting to Marinos Damistras’ son Tzorzi, and even inspired the work of other renowned Greek painters like Georgios Klontzas.

Poulakis’ paintings are full of life, with fuller shapes and variations of color that set him apart from the traditional maniera greca. His work, such as Hymn to the Virgin, showcases the Greek tradition, while also breaking new ground. The Birth of Isaac, Adam and Eve, and Noah’s Ark are perfect examples of the transitional period of the Cretan School to the more refined and sophisticated art of the Heptanese School.

10 Majestic Artworks of Theodore Poulakis

1. Noah’s Ark

Theodore Poulakis, Noah's Ark — *Source: Wikimedia Commons*

2. Death of Mosses

Theodore Poulakis, Death of Mosses — *Source: Wikimedia Commons*

3. In Thee Rejoiceth

Theodore Poulakis, In thee Rejoiceth — *Source: Wikimedia Commons*

4. St. John The Baptist

5. The Archangel Michael

Theodore Poulakis, Archangel Michael — *Source: Wikimedia Commons*

6. The Nativity of Christ

The Nativity of Christ, Theodore Poulakis — *Source: Wikimedia Commons*

7. The Fall of Man

The Fall of Man, Theodore Poulakis — *Source: Wikimedia Commons*

8. God Creates Adam

Theodore Poulakis, Adam — *Source: Wikimedia Commons*

9. God Creates Eve

Theodore Poulakis, Eve painting — *Source: Wikimedia Commons*

10. Birth of Issac

Birth of Issac, Theodore Poulakis — *Source: Wikimedia Commons*

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Theodore Poulakis: A Journey to Traditional Greek Art