Baroque

III. Baroque (17th-mid-18th centuries)
Baroque was classified in using symbolism and is characterized with emphasizing detail, movement, lighting, and drama. It is also described as the "Counter-Reformation" of art, in that it revitalized the spirit of the Catholic Church with being very impressive. The best known painters include: [Rembrandt], [Peter Paul Rubens], and [Diego Velazquez]. This era ended with the death of [Louis XIV] of France who used this type of art throughout his reign of at least 72 years to show power and prestige.


 * A. Visual Art**

This art usually has much detail and emphasis in it. Artists were usually commissioned by the state to create pieces for the ruler. [Marie de Medici] (Queen of France) was one of the patrons of this art. Sculptures usually depicted the human art of form and energy. [Bernini] is one of the most important artists of this time, especially in sculpture.

//Ecstasy of St. Teresa//, Bernini


 * B. Architecture**

The ultimate goal of Baroque was to impress and awe all who saw these buildings. It was common for the heads of states to create homes that would impress the rulers of other nations. This art would show power and wealth of a nation with an impressive building. Think, what if the president lived in an average house rather than the White House. Would you still hold him to be as powerful?

The Palace of Versailles built under King Louis XIV

Germany's largest Baroque Palace.


 * C. Music**

Baroque music is seen to be very impressive and overwhelming music. It shares with the baroque visual arts a use of ornamentation, or "going over the top." Opera evolved from this time. Typical instruments include: the baroque volin, viola d'amore, viola da gamba, harpsichord, baroque oboe, baroque trumpet, and the lute. Famous composers include: [Heinrich Schutz] (//Symphoniae Sacrae//), [Henry Purcell] (//Dido and Aeneas//), [Antonia Vivaldi] (//L'Estro Armonica//), [George Frideric Handel] (//Water Music Suite//), and [Jean-Philippe Rameau] (//Dardanus//).

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