The earliest artistic manifestations in
Malta date to prehistoric times. This is
testified by a rich archaeological heritage
consisting of a variety of decorated clay
and stone artifacts and a series of
impressive megalithic structures. The
potter's craft developed into an expression
of cultural vitality materialised through a
series of patterns and decorations that
reflect successive aesthetic requirements.
The Impressed Ware of the early neolithic
farmers of the Gliar Dalam phase
(5000-4500 B.C.) was superseded by the
prosaic forms of the Grey Skorba phase
(4500-4400 B.C.) and enlivened by a bright
red slip in the course of the so called Red
Skorba phase (4400-4100 B.C.). Meanwhile
man discovered the art of modelling
anthropomorphic figurines. However it was
during the Temple Period (4100-2500 B.C.)
that prehistoric man in Malta poured forth
an extraordinary civilising energy that took
the contours of greatness.peer-reviewe
