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Overview of Baroque Period

• The Baroque period is a critical phase in 17th-century European art.

• This module focuses on the context of the Reformation, affecting art in the 17th century.

• Key artists studied: Bernini, Caravaggio, and Velasquez, primarily from Catholic regions including Italy and Spain.

Review of Previous Session

• Explored genres of Renaissance painting, distinguishing styles between Italy and Northern Europe.

• Discussed works: Eisenheim Altarpiece and Arnolfini Portrait, showcasing Northern European techniques favored in the 15th-16th centuries.

• Emphasized the importance of portraiture for commemoration and celebration.

• Notable artist: Albrecht Dürer, known for oil paintings and prints.

• Key Discussion Points:

  • Dürer’s portrait uniqueness.

  • Impact of the printing press on Renaissance art.

Introduction to the Baroque Period

• Timeline: Follows the Renaissance, primarily throughout the 17th century.

• Period associated with significant European history, often seen as a Golden Age for Italian and Spanish art.

• Differences: Building on Renaissance developments but introducing new ways of realistic representation.

Context of Religious Division

• Result of 16th-century religious wars led to Protestant Reformation:

  • Split of the Catholic Church: Catholic regions (Central/Southern Europe) vs. Protestant (North).

• This division influenced artistic subjects, particularly in the Catholic regions where religious themes predominate.

Key Artists and their Influence

Gian Lorenzo Bernini

• Renowned for dramatic sculpture.

• Impressive works are celebrated as models in Baroque art practice.

• Engaged viewers with intricate poses and psychological depth in figures.

• Notable Work: David (1623)

  • Material: Marble, life-size, measuring 1.7 meters tall.

  • Features:

    • Idealized young male figure is nude, athletic, and strong.

    • Posed in a serpentine motion, ready to launch a stone.

    • Dynamic texture, suggesting the softness of marble.

    • Emphasizes viewer movement to appreciate the sculpture from multiple angles.

Caravaggio

• Pioneered realism and dramatic lighting in Baroque painting.

• Notable Work: Crucifixion of Saint Peter (1600)

  • Medium: Oil painting, measuring 2.3 by 1.7 meters, commissioned for Santa Maria del Popolo.

  • Discussion Points:

    • Employs tenebrism: dramatic contrast between light and dark, creating a theatrical effect.

    • Depicts the historical martyrdom of St. Peter, requesting to be crucified upside down.

    • Usage of contemporary clothing in figures to connect with viewers of the 17th century.

    • Strong diagonals in composition lead the viewer's eye, emphasizing the action.

    • Foreshortening is used to enhance the illusion of volume and space.

    • Realistic portrayal of characters, with discernible human features and emotions.

    • Uncommon elements (e.g., dirty feet of executioners) enhance relatability and realism.

Techniques Characteristic of Baroque Art

• Key characteristics across Baroque artworks:

  • Realism.

  • Strong diagonals.

  • Dramatic emotions.

  • Clear subject matter with emphasis on action.

  • Foreshortening and tenebrism enhance dynamism and engagement.

• Caravaggio's techniques influenced numerous artists, including Spanish painter Velasquez and Dutch artist Rembrandt.