Women in the Revolution of 1821

Goes without saying, it wasn’t only the men of Greece who found themselves in the cross-fire of the Greek Revolution of 1821 or undertaking heroic deeds.

Here is a colourful exhibition that salutes the huge contribution of women both in the struggle for independence against centuries of Ottoman rule and during the pivotal early years of the newly formed Greek state.

Staged by the B&M Theocharakis Foundation in the gallery hub of Kolonaki, this welcome exhibition underscores the key role that the fairer sex played in “inspiring men and taking part in the battles, while instilling in their children a love for the homeland and a fighting spirit towards the conqueror”.  

Taken from the collection of Michalis and Dimitra Varkaraki, when the galleries of Athens re-open, you can view 80 paintings, porcelain objects and clocks of the 19th century.

Highlights include exquisite 19th century paintings such as the Greek Mother With Her Dead Child and the Abduction of A Greek Woman by Louise Vallot, as well as the Women From Souli in Battle, ascribed to Konstantinos Iatras.

The philhellenic works selected were inspired exclusively by the Greek women who acted during this critical period of Modern Greek history, says event curator Fani Maria Tsigakou. 

"These are works that teach us our history, the pain and heroism of women, either as mothers or as symbols of sacrifice.”