baroque. architecture pptx

Chapter 2: Baroque Architecture

Introduction to Baroque Architecture

  • The term "Baroque" is derived from the Portuguese word "barocco," which means irregular pearls.

  • Baroque represents an aesthetic movement that originated in Italy and spread across Europe during the late 16th century.

  • It is characterized by bizarre or uneven forms, marking a transition in art history from the Renaissance to a more expressive style.

Historical Context

  • Baroque architecture emerged in Italy in the early 17th century.

  • Diffused rapidly throughout Europe, reinterpreting the principles of Renaissance architecture in a more theatrical and rhetorical manner.

Geographic Spread of Baroque Art

  • Key centers: Rome, Paris, Versailles, and the Netherlands.

  • Notable cities include: London, Munich, Vienna, and Prague, which played significant roles in the Baroque art movement.

Architectural Features of Italian Baroque Churches

  • Italian Baroque architecture (1550-1800) extends Renaissance themes, focusing on elaborate decorations and features such as:

    • Pilasters

    • Cornices

    • Undulating lines on facades

    • Elliptical plans replacing strict rectangular designs.

  • Emphasis on monumental effects created through concentrated ornamentation.

German Baroque Architecture

  • Timeframe: 1550-1800

  • Shift from a longitudinal layout (Italian inspiration) to more oval structures, particularly in southern Germany.

  • Characterized by twin towers topped with lanterns and opulent decoration contrasting with classical restraint.

French and Spanish Baroque

  • French Baroque (1580-1770):

    • Reflects the lifestyle of the court and aristocracy, favoring palatial elegance over urban churches.

    • Typical of opulent châteaux rather than public religious spaces.

  • Spanish Baroque:

    • Noted for its extravagant Churrigueresque ornamentation, influencing architecture in South America.

    • The Obradoiro de Compostela is an example of this style.

Late Baroque and Rococo Style

  • Transition of Baroque to Rococo in the early 18th century marked by:

    • Playful motifs such as putti and intricate details in architecture.

    • Rococo interior design with smooth surfaces and elegant forms inspired by nature (rocks, shells).

Urban Development in the 17th Century

  • Urban landscapes transformed into centralized systems focused on royal squares that embodied the relationship between sovereigns and citizens.

  • Notable urban centers include Rome, Paris, and Turin.

Architectural Innovations and Landscape

  • The gardens by André Le Nôtre showcased new design principles:

    • Longitudinal axes guiding observer movement.

    • Major transformations in natural landscapes observed during this period.

Characteristics of Baroque Architecture

  • Noted for its creativity and innovation:

    • Opulent use of ornamentation and a theatrical approach to spaces, especially in church interiors.

  • Preferences for undulating facades and flexible plans (oval or elliptical) that break from Renaissance symmetry.

Key Architectural Typologies

  • Changes in church layouts with emphasis on central plans becoming elliptical:

    • Significant structures include the Church of Gesù with modified naves and chapels.

  • Civil architecture showcased princely structures through an open horseshoe layout for urban palaces.

Baroque Techniques and Decoration

  • Introduction of the "pillar wall": Buttresses become internal columns exposing structures.

  • Features twisted columns and dramatic perspectives utilizing trompe-l'oeil in frescoes, creating vast spatial illusions.

  • Characteristic elements include a multitude of geometric shapes and contrasts of light and shadow.

Conclusion

  • Baroque architecture merges space with ornamental decorations, emphasizing motion, theatricality, and multi-faceted designs. The lasting influence of Baroque can be seen in subsequent architectural styles across Europe.