Baroque Art I: Characteristics of Art and Architecture

Architects and Structures

• Borromini is the architect associated with prominent Baroque churches.
• The Palace of Versailles exemplifies the grandeur of French Baroque architecture.
• The Church of San Carlo Alle Quattro Fontane is a significant architectural work of the Baroque period.

Sculpture Comparisons

• Bernini's David conveys dynamic action and emotional engagement, while Michelangelo's David offers a more introspective and intellectual appeal.
• Michelangelo's David features an open composition, inviting viewer interaction, whereas Bernini's David actively pulls the viewer into the scene.

Art Characteristics

• Baroque art is marked by drama, exuberance, and ornate details.
• Artists focused on intellectual aspects rather than realistic representations in Baroque art.
• Tenebrism, a technique characterized by stark contrasts of light and dark, is a key feature in Baroque painting.

Techniques and Styles

• Sfumato was not utilized during the Baroque period; it is a technique from earlier artistic movements.
• Genre painting represents everyday life, differing from religious or royal depictions.
• Baroque sculptures differ from classical works due to their dramatic and participatory nature.

Historical Context

• French Baroque architecture peaked under Louis XIV, reflecting themes of absolute power.
• Château de Versailles symbolizes a transformation from a neglected field into an exquisite representation of strength and opulence.
• The story of Château de Versailles is often seen as a "rags-to-riches" narrative due to its extravagant development.

Emotional Expression

• The emotional conveyance in Bernini's sculptures is evident through bodily curvature and facial expressions.
• Artistic compositions in Baroque art frequently employ diagonal arrangements, creating a sense of movement and depth.

Notable Artists

• Juan Sánchez Cotán is recognized for his contributions to Baroque art through masterful still life representations.
• Bernini's "Ecstasy of St. Teresa" is a renowned sculpture showcasing emotional intensity.

Architectural Composition

• Baroque compositions often incorporate diagonals and upward expansion, contrasting with the balanced, restrained compositions of prior styles.

Artistic Techniques

• Impasto, involving thickly applied paint, adds texture and depth to Baroque artworks.