time periods

Etruscan

wall frescoes—painted in two-dimensional style—and realistic terra-cotta portraits found in tombs, Etruscan statues were generally made of terracotta, or baked clay.,

Roman

a focus on symmetry, proportion, and harmony, drawing inspiration from Greek architectural styles. Some key features include columns, arches, and domes. Examples of classical Roman architecture include the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, and the Pantheon.

Late Antique

frontality, stiffness of pose and drapery, deeply drilled lines, less naturalism, squat proportions, and lack of individualism.

Byzantine

devotional, Christian subjects depicted in angular forms with sharp contours, flattened colour and gold decoration.

Islamic

calligraphy, vegetal patterns, geometric patterns, and figural representation.

Medieval W. Africa

long narrow heads, dramatic expressions and unusual hair styles.

Hindu Art & Architecture

architecture are precise and harmonious geometry when viewed from all four sides and above, the sense of reverence and spirituality

Song & Yuan China

Ink paintings, calligraphy, and pottery

Early South America

use of bright colours and natural materials such as wood and stone.

Medieval Mesoamerica

the use of calendars, made of 260-day years, the importance of green stones, such as jadeite, and the use of bird feathers.

Early Medieval Europe

iconography, Christian subject matter, elaborate patterns and decoration, bright colors, the use of precious metals, gems, and other luxurious materials, stylized figures, and social status.

Gothic

more realistic rendering of the human form, more complex sense of perspective, and use of chiaroscuro effects in light and shading.