In-Depth Study Notes for Art History II Exam (17th-18th Century)

17th Century Baroque: Italy

• St. Peter’s Basilica and Piazza, Rome

  • Façade by Maderno: The monumental entrance designed with grand architectural elements typical of the Baroque style.

  • Colonnade by Bernini: A stunning display of columns that creates an enveloping space for visitors.

• Bernini’s Works:

  • David: Depicts the biblical hero in a dynamic pose, showcasing Baroque's emphasis on movement.

  • St. Teresa of Avila in Ecstasy, Cornaro Chapel: A powerful theatrical representation of a saint’s mystical experience.

• Borromini, San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane, Rome: An architectural marvel demonstrating undulating façades and complex geometries.

• Gaulli, Triumph of the Name of Jesus and the Fall of the Damned, Il Gesu, Rome: A striking ceiling fresco merging figures with architecture creating a spiritual ascend.

• Caravaggio:

  • Calling of St. Matthew (1599-1600): Known for its dramatic use of light and shadow, a key element of tenebrism.

  • Conversion of St. Paul: Illustrates a pivotal moment in Christianity with intense realism.

• Gentileschi, Judith Slaying Holofernes: A powerful image of female strength, illustrating a dramatic narrative with vivid detail.

17th Century Baroque: Spain

• Ribera, Martyrdom of St. Philip: A dramatic depiction of suffering and faith, characteristic of Spanish Baroque.

• Velazquez:

  • Water Carrier of Seville: Introduction of everyday life into art, emphasizing naturalism.

  • Las Meninas: An intricate composition that plays with perspective and viewer interaction.

17th Century Baroque: Flanders

• Rubens:

  • The Raising of the Cross: A dynamic, emotional composition that emphasizes movement and emotion.

  • Arrival of Marie de’ Medici at Marseilles: A celebration of royal event with allegorical figures and vibrant textures.

• Van Dyck, Charles I at the Hunt: An example of portraiture that exudes nobility and grandeur.

• Peeters, Still Life with Flowers, Goblet, Dried Fruit, and Pretzels: Exemplifies the artistry and richness of Flemish still life.

17th Century Baroque: Netherlands

• Hals, Archers of Saint Hadrian: A lively group portrait showcasing individual character.

• Rembrandt:

  • Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Tulp: A significant moment in the advancement of medical knowledge depicted with remarkable realism.

  • The Night Watch: Notable for its large scale and dramatic lighting, a hallmark of Baroque style.

  • Self-Portrait, 1658: An introspective work showcasing Rembrandt’s skill and emotional depth.

• Frick Collection, Ruisdael, View of Haarlem from the Dunes at Overveen: A landscape that captures the essence of Dutch scenery.

• Vermeer:

  • Girl with a Pearl Earring: A masterful use of light and color to create an intimate portrait.

  • Woman Holding a Balance: Symbolic interpretation of material versus spiritual balance.

• Steen, The Feast of Saint Nicholas: A jovial depiction of a festive family gathering.

• Ruysch, Flower Still Life: Known for its detailed representation of nature and symbolism of beauty.

17th Century Baroque: France

• Rigaud, Louis XIV: A portrayal of the king emphasizing power and grandeur through opulent details.

• LeVau, Hardouin-Mansart, LeBrun, Versailles:

  • Hall of Mirrors: A pinnacle of Baroque architecture and design, capturing light and space magnificently.

• Poussin:

  • Et in Arcadia Ego: A contemplative piece exploring themes of mortality.

  • Landscape with St. John on Patmos: A serene landscape integrating classical themes.

• Claude Lorrain, Landscape with Cattle and Peasants: Represents pastoral beauty and harmony with nature.

18th Century Baroque - Rococo

• Boffrand, Salon de la Princesse, Hotel de Soubise, Paris: A luxurious interior demonstrating the playful excesses of Rococo.

• Watteau, Pilgrimage to the Island of Cythera: Depicts romance and the fleeting nature of love.

• Boucher:

  • Cupid a Captive: A flirtatious representation of love.

  • Pompadour at Her Toilette: An intimate portrayal of a prominent figure in French society.

• Fragonard, The Swing: A quintessential Rococo painting emphasizing frivolity and allure.

Enlightenment and Neoclassicism

• Joseph Wright Derby, An Experiment on a Bird in the Air-Pump: A remarkable exploration of science and enlightenment rationality.

• Chardin, Saying Grace: An intimate family scene highlighting moral themes.

• Vigee-Lebrun, Marie Antoinette and Her Children: A royal portrayal that humanizes the queen.

• Hogarth, Breakfast Scene, from Marriage à la Mode: A satirical look at 18th-century society.

• Gainsborough, Mrs. Richard Brinsley Sheridan: A masterful portrait capturing grace and elegance.

• John Singleton Copley, Portrait of Paul Revere: Reflects American patriotism and identity.

• David:

  • Oath of the Horatii: A dramatic narrative emphasizing duty and patriotism.

  • The Death of Marat: A striking depiction of revolution and martyrdom.

• Jefferson, Monticello: An embodiment of Neoclassicism in American architecture.

• Houdon, George Washington: A life-like sculpture representing America's founding figure.

Key Terms and People to Know

• Protestant Reformation: A major movement leading to the establishment of Protestant churches.

• Tenebrism: A style using strong contrasts of light and dark.

• Genre: Artwork depicting everyday life scenes.

• Counter-Reformation: The Catholic Church's response to the Protestant Reformation, influencing Baroque art.

• Louis XIV: The French king whose reign epitomized absolute monarchy and opulence.

• Vanitas: A genre of still-life painting showing the transience of beauty and life.

• Woodcut: A printing technique used in illustrations.

• Rococo: An artistic movement emphasizing ornate detail and lightness.

• Camera Obscura: An early photographic device influencing artists' perspectives.

• Anamorphic Image: An image that appears distorted until viewed from a particular angle.

• Breakfast Piece: Still life paintings featuring breakfast items, symbolizing contentment.

• Realism: An art movement focused on depicting everyday life without embellishment.

• Piazza: A public square in a city.

• Colonnade: A row of columns supporting a roof or roof-like structure.

• Neoclassicism: An art movement inspired by classical antiquity emphasizing simplicity and elegance.

• The Grand Manner: A style aiming to convey grandeur and seriousness in art.

• The Enlightenment: An intellectual movement emphasizing reason, individualism, and skepticism of authority.

• Marie de’ Medici: A prominent historical figure linked with notable artworks.

• Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture: An institution for artists in France, shaping art standards.

• Marie Antoinette: The last Queen of France, often depicted in art of the time.