BAROQUE ART

BAROQUE ART
• Emerging in the late 16th century and flourishing
throughout the 17th century, is a captivating and
dynamic style that reflects the grandeur and
emotional depth of its time.

• Characterized by dramatic use of light and shadow,

intense colors, and intricate details, Baroque art
sought to evoke a sense of movement and emotion,
drawing viewers into its grandeur.
(Grandeur - splendor and impressiveness, especially of appearance and style)
 BAROQUE ART
• The word Baroque was derived from the Portuguese
word “barroco” which means “irregularly shaped
pearl or stone.”

• There was a continuation of Classicism and

naturalism of the Renaissance.
 INTRODUCTION TO
BARQUE ART
• The art of this era not only transformed the visual
landscape but also mirrored the complexities of
society, religion, and politics, making it a fascinating
topic of study for art enthusiasts and historians
alike.

• This period saw the rise of influential artists like

Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and Bernini, who pushed
the boundaries of creativity and expression.
 Historical Context of Baroque Art

1. Absolute Monarchies
The rise of powerful monarchs led to grand art and
architecture as a means to showcase their authority.
Notable examples include the opulent Palace of Versailles.
Peter Paul Rubens, arrival of Marie de Medici at Marseillesn
1622-25
 Historical Context of Baroque Art

2. Religious Influence
The Counter-Reformation prompted the Catholic Church to
commission dramatic artworks to inspire devotion and
reaffirm its power. Artists like Caravaggio and Bernini
focused on emotional and religious themes.
Giovanni Battista Gaulli, also known as il Baciccio, The
Triumph of the Name of Jesus, II Gesú ceiling frescoe,
1672-1685
 Historical Context of Baroque Art
3. Scientific Advancements
The period saw significant scientific progress, which
influenced artists to incorporate realism and movement,
resulting in lifelike representations in their works.

4. Cultural Flourishing
Baroque art coincided with a vibrant cultural era, where
literature, music, and philosophy thrived, with composers
like Bach and Vivaldi creating expressive music that
mirrored the emotional intensity of visual arts.
 Historical Context of Baroque Art
5. Diversity of Expression
As Baroque art spread, it adapted to local cultures, with
varying focuses—Italy emphasized drama, while the
Netherlands, through artists like Rembrandt, highlighted
light and everyday life.
 Key Characteristics of Baroque Art
1. Dramatic Light and Shadow
Artists used strong contrasts (chiaroscuro) to create depth and
enhance emotional intensity.

2. Movement and Energy

The art conveys a sense of dynamism, with figures and
compositions that suggest action and life.

3. Emotional Expression
Works aim to evoke strong feelings in viewers through
expressive figures and dramatic scenes.
Judith slaying Holofernes by Artemisia Gentileschi
 Key Characteristics of Baroque Art

4. Ornate Detail and Grandeur

Baroque art is characterized by elaborate decorations
and a grand scale, particularly in architecture.

5. Theatrical composition
Many pieces are designed to create a sense of drama,
using dynamic arrangements and diagonal lines.
Church of Saint Ignatius of Loyola in Italy
 Key Characteristics of Baroque Art
6. Realism and Naturalism
Artists focused on realistic portrayals of figures and nature,
highlighting details for authenticity.

7. Religious and Mythological Themes

Common subjects include religious narratives, saints, and classical
mythology, reflecting the era's cultural spirit.

8. Integration of Art Forms

Baroque works often combine painting, sculpture, and architecture
into cohesive designs, especially in churches.
The Descent from the Cross
 Materials and Mediums

1. Oil Paint:
- The most common medium for Baroque painters, oil
paint allowed for rich colors, detailed textures, and the
ability to create luminous effects through glazing
techniques. Artists like Rembrandt and Caravaggio were
renowned for their mastery of oil painting.
Rembrandt van Rijn’s oil painting,
“The Storm on the Sea of Galilee”
Dimensions: 160 cm x 128 cm (63.00 in x 50.39in)
2. Canvas and Wood Panels:
- Artists painted on both canvas and wooden panels. Canvas
became increasingly popular during the Baroque period due to
its lightweight nature and portability, allowing for larger
works. Wood panels were still used, especially for smaller
pieces and altarpieces.
3. Marble:
- Marble was a favored medium for sculpture and
architecture. Its durability and ability to be polished to a
high sheen made it ideal for creating lifelike figures and
elaborate architectural details. Gian Lorenzo Bernini's
sculptures exemplify the use of marble in Baroque art.
Gian Lorenzo Bernini's “Apollo and Daphne” marble sculpture
4. Bronze:
- Bronze was often used for sculptures and decorative
elements. It allowed for intricate details and could be
cast into complex shapes, as seen in many Baroque
fountains and public monuments, such as Bernini’s
*Fountain of the Four Rivers*.
“Fountain of the Four Rivers” by Gian Lorenzo Bernini
5. Fresco:
- Fresco painting, where pigments are applied to wet plaster, was
used for large wall and ceiling murals. This method was particularly
popular in churches and palaces, allowing for grand narratives to be
depicted across expansive surfaces. An example is the ceiling of the
*Palazzo Barberini*, painted by Pietro da Cortona.
ceiling of the “Palazzo Barberini”, painted by
Pietro da Cortona.
6. Gilding:
- The technique of applying gold leaf or gold paint was
commonly used to enhance the richness and opulence of Baroque
art and architecture. Gilding adorned frames, sculptures, and
architectural details, adding a sense of luxury and grandeur.
7. Textiles:
- In addition to painting and sculpture, textiles played a significant
role in Baroque art. Rich fabrics were used in clothing for figures,
tapestries, and interior decor, often featuring elaborate patterns and
textures that complemented the visual richness of the period.
8. Ceramics and Porcelain:
- Ceramics, including majolica and early porcelain, were used for
decorative arts and tableware. These materials often featured intricate
designs, vibrant colors, and scenes that reflected the themes of the
Baroque period.
9. Architecture:
- Architectural materials included stone, brick, and stucco. Baroque
architecture emphasized grandeur and dramatic effects, often
incorporating domes, grand staircases, and ornate facades, as seen in St.
Peter's Basilica.
 Capacity: 60,000 standing or
20,000 seated
Length: 220 metres (720 ft.)
Width: 150 metres (490 ft.)
Height: 136.6 metres (448 ft.)

St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City

 Major Artists of Baroque Art and Their
Contributions
1. Caravaggio (1571-1610)
- Revolutionized painting with dramatic light and shadow
(chiaroscuro) and realistic depictions of biblical scenes,
emphasizing emotion in works like "The Calling of Saint
Matthew."
The Calling of Saint Matthew
 Major Artists of Baroque Art and Their
Contributions
2. Gian Lorenzo Bernini (1598-1680):
- Renowned sculptor and architect known for
expressive sculptures such as "The Ecstasy of Saint
Teresa" and the design of St. Peter's Basilica’s
colonnade, blending architecture and sculpture.
The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa
 Major Artists of Baroque Art and Their
Contributions
3. Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669):
- Celebrated Dutch painter famous for his mastery
of light and shadow in works like "The Night
Watch," capturing complex human emotions and
innovative self-portraits.
The Night Watch
 Major Artists of Baroque Art and Their
Contributions
4. Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640):
- Prolific Flemish painter recognized for dynamic
compositions and vibrant colors, often depicting
historical and mythological themes, as seen in "The
Descent from the Cross."
The Descent from the Cross
 Major Artists of Baroque Art and Their
Contributions
5. Diego Velázquez (1599-1660):
- Spanish painter known for realistic portraits and masterful
light in "Las Meninas," exploring perspective and
representation in art.
Las Meninas
 Major Artists of Baroque Art and Their
Contributions
6. Nicolo Poussin (1594-1665)
- one of the famous French Baroque painters. He
introduced the classical tradition which was often
described as embodying the opposite traits of Caravaggio,
and there is some truth to this. His works were very subtle
and his compositions were meticulously staged, just as if on
a stage.
Landscape with a Calm
 Conclusion
• Baroque art, prevalent in Europe from the late 16th to
early 18th centuries, is characterized by its dramatic use
of light and shadow, intense emotions, and dynamic
movement, emerging as a response to the simplicity of
the Renaissance and reflecting the religious fervor of the
Counter-Reformation. Key features include chiaroscuro
to create depth, energetic poses, and intricate details
that evoke strong feelings, often through religious
themes designed to inspire faith. Notable artists like
Caravaggio, Peter Paul Rubens, and Rembrandt played
significant roles in shaping this powerful and influential
artistic movement.