The two artifacts I have chosen to do a formal analysis of both are of Cretan origin. I chose to do artifacts from the same culture to reflect on the recurring themes in Cretan art. The most prevalent motif seems to be the so-called “marine-style” as it is referred to in the various online sources including at http://www.ancient.eu/article/391/. Being an island in the Mediterranean, it is no surprise maritime trade and military development were priorities in Cretan culture and in these departments Crete was undoubtedly superior among the other Greek entities throughout the known world at this time. The architecture and other artifacts of the Cretan civilization are evidence of the emphasis on maritime culture in their society. 
To the left is an artist’s representation of the Palace Complex of Knossos as it may have appeared during its time. The architecture of the complex is no less than a culmination of all of the architectural design choices we have discussed as so far. There is a calculated structure to the layout of the Palace Complex that facilitates socio, economic, as well as political purposes as seen in the floor plan below.
Not unlike some of the Egyptian architecture, there are long hallways lined with pillars particularly the inclusion of a colonnade that is ideal for processions of ritualistic or simply celebratory occasion and as this is recurring architectural design it is obvious that it has found its way into what is considered the canon for portraying power. Speaking of power, the columns throughout the complex are imposing and extraordinary feats of engineering that are as utilitarian as they are aesthetic because columns make for a “flexible wall system” that is resistant to the not uncommon earthquakes in the Mediterranean. Speaking of Mediterranean, being at the heart of the maritime trade in their era makes the inclusion of a treasury within the complex unsurprising. The various open courtyards are also speculated to have been frequented venues for markets. 
The image to the left is a particularly well known fresco found within the Complex of Knossos. The Cretan maritime culture is represented by various undersea creatures in the above painting and various dyes were used as indicated by the colors. The bordering patterns are complex and testament to the fascination with geometric design at the time which translated not only into their art but architectural design.
The Octopus Vase was used for storing wine and oil. This artifact serves as a functional representation of the economy of this society as well as the artistic elements recurring marine style theme.