REF - Art of the 16th Century: Mannerism and Baroque Art (Lesson)
Art of the 16th Century: Mannerism and Baroque Art
Reality is a Little Distorted
Mannerism
The art style of Mannerism began around the end of the Renaissance period, the early 17th century, and continued throughout the rest of the 17th century. The hallmark of this movement is that there is distortion and drama in the artwork. Mannerism exaggerates the symmetry of the Renaissance period and produces asymmetrical pieces of art that have an artificial feeling to them.
Characteristics of Mannerism Art
- Black backgrounds
- Elongation of forms
- Distortion of perspective
- Exaggerated colors
- Serpentine shapes
Source: Art in Context Links to an external site.
Baroque Art
The period of Baroque art, architecture, literature, and music followed the Mannerism period. The purpose of this art was to inspire a sense of awe through its grandiose appearance. It was ornate, highly colorful, and emotional.
View Sue Pojer’s power point on Baroque Art here. Links to an external site.
The Use of Art to Promote Stature and Power.
During the Reformation period, art was used to display stature and power by monarchies, city-states, and the Catholic Church itself.
El Greco – Although El Greco failed to obtain further commissions from King Philip II of Spain, he did produce two pieces of work for him, which Philip did not like. El Greco’s work was used, however, in churches and hospitals in Toledo, Spain.
Gian Bernini – known as the artist to the Church. Bernini produced numerous paintings and sculptures for the Vatican and for popes personally.
Peter Paul Rubens – Fleming Baroque artist. Produced works for many city-states and monarchs, especially in England, France, Spain, and the Netherlands.
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