2.7 - Art of the 16th Century: Mannerism and Baroque Art

The Evolution of Art During the Renaissance and Reformation

• Introduction:

  • The significant social and religious changes in Europe, such as the Protestant and Catholic Reformations, also led to transformations in the art world.

• Renaissance Humanism and Secular Art:

  • The Renaissance was dominated by humanism, a philosophy that emphasized the potential and achievements of humans, often at the expense of religious influence.

  • Renaissance art reflected this secularizing force, focusing on human potential and the material world rather than religious themes.

• Mannerism (1520s-1530s):

  • Origins:

    • Mannerism arose as a reaction to the religious revival sparked by the Protestant Reformation.

    • Initially, the term "mannerism" was used derogatorily, suggesting that these artists were mere imitators of Renaissance greats like Michelangelo, but lacking their genius.

  • Characteristics:

    • Distorted Figures: Mannerist artists often used distorted figures and violated classical proportions to convey intense emotion and spiritual suffering.

    • El Greco: The most famous Mannerist artist, known for works like Laocoön, which featured elongated figures, dramatic skies, and muted colors to evoke a sense of heightened drama.

  • Significance:

    • Mannerism reflected the European yearning for deeper spiritual experiences in the face of the religious upheavals of the time.

• Baroque Art (Late 16th Century):

  • Transition from Mannerism:

    • By the late 16th century, Mannerism fell out of favor, and Baroque art emerged, blending the classical ideals of the Renaissance with the emotional intensity of the Reformation period.

  • Characteristics:

    • Extravagance and Ornamentation: Baroque art was known for its ornate and detailed style, often grand and highly emotional.

    • Classical Proportion: Unlike Mannerism, Baroque art adhered to classical proportions while still evoking powerful emotions.

    • Drama and Emotion: Baroque art focused on dramatic scenes and intense emotions, making it both visually and emotionally compelling.

  • Key Artists:

    • Peter Paul Rubens: A leading Baroque painter, known for works like The Elevation of the Cross, which captures the intense emotion and drama of the scene.

    • Gian Lorenzo Bernini: The greatest Baroque sculptor, known for his highly detailed sculptures and architectural contributions, such as the magnificent Colonnade on The Piazza in front of Saint Peter's Basilica.

  • Catholic Church and Baroque Art:

    • The Catholic Church, undergoing its own Reformation, embraced Baroque art to consolidate its power and communicate the grandeur of its doctrines.

    • Baroque art was favored by the Church not only because of its ability to capture religious emotion but also for its straightforwardness, which was crucial as the Church sought to counter the losses it had suffered due to the Protestant Reformation.