Baroque Art: History, Characteristics and Styles

The Baroque Period

During the seventeenth century, Europe was divided into two main areas: the Mediterranean zone, under the influence of the papacy and the dictates of the Counter-Reformation, and the area north of Europe, under the influence of Protestant churches.

Political and Religious Context

In political terms, absolute monarchies dominated the south, while parliamentary attempts were initiated in the north.

This political and religious division was reflected in art. The Counter-Reformation and absolute monarchies demanded art and ideology to reassert their power. This ideology was intended to captivate the viewer through the senses via Gesamtkunstwerk (total art), combining architecture, painting, and sculpture. Art served as propaganda for political and religious power, utilizing lavish, dazzling, and theatrical designs to generate an emotional impact on the spectator. In Northern Europe, the bourgeoisie held economic power, and consequently, art was suited to bourgeois tastes and themes.

Baroque Models by Geographical Area

• Counter-Reformation Baroque: Extended through Italy and Spain, with themes consistent with communicating the principles of the Council of Trent.
• Absolutist Baroque: Developed in France and under the Bourbons in Spain; a more classical style aimed at acting as a convincing argument for royal power.
• Protestant Baroque: Developed in the Netherlands, aimed at a bourgeois clientele with a penchant for traditional themes, still lifes, interiors, and landscapes.

Baroque Architecture

Baroque architecture is defined by movement and theatricality:

• Dynamic Forms: Buildings feature curved pediments and gables. The Solomonic column is a characteristic element.
• Perspective and Light: Facades have multiple levels that introduce light and perspective effects.
• Illusionism: Techniques are used to enlarge space visually.
• Structural Grandeur: Extensive use of large domes and the colossal order.
• Ornamentation: Rich decoration, often formed by plant motifs.
• Urban Planning: Enormous avenues and squares are designed to lead to main buildings.

Baroque Sculpture

Originating in Italy, the real boom of Baroque sculpture was reached with the work of Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

• Movement and Dynamism: Sculptors expressed movement through turgid drapery and diagonal figures that represent a sense of foreshortening.
• Light and Shadow: Draperies accentuate the movement of light and shadow.
• Theatricality: Sculptures were conceived within a specific framework, binding architecture and sculpture together as a total art form.
• Emotional Drama: Human expressions are captured with intensity to move the viewer (concetto).
• Diverse Subjects: Religious, mythological, and genre scenes are commonly represented.