Liam's Land of Landscapes

  Morality in the Neo-Classical Period The Baroque and Rococo periods were full of extravagance. The artwork of that time often depicted images that focused on self-indulgence or even things that could be sexual in nature. As art began to focus on order and balance, the Neo-Classical period was introduced. Art began to look more restrained or controlled in a way. It was more civil or moral. Many of the Neoclassical paintings showed someone just doing an everyday activity, like sweeping the floor or working a job. The first piece below is Classical Ruins by William Hamilton. It is a rather ordinary painting, in my opinion, but it exemplifies the Neoclassical period perfectly. It reminds me of something I might see hanging in a public library or doctor's office. It has very muted, neutral tones with the primary focus on the people in the right corner working with the sheep. There are slight dabs of white on their clothing and on the horse that really draws you to that corner. While ...

Art Analysis of the Baroque Period Domine, quo vadis? Annibale Carracci,  Christ appearing to Saint Peter on the Appian Way  (1601-02) Oil on canvas. National Gallery, London This piece of work by Annibale Carracci was painted around 1601-02. It is a depiction of Christ trying to direct St. Peter on Appian Way as St. Peter is attempting to flee Rome. "Domine, quo vadis?" is translated as, "Lord, where are you going?". What is depicted here is not a story from the Bible, as it is believed to have been a legend that the Lord came back after he was crucified.  The Carracci family have been considered some of the firsts to introduce Baroque art. They were able to tie in some of the characteristics of Italian art with more rich, vibrant colors of the Baroque style, and this is evident in this piece that is stunningly bright. There is a little bit of a muted background, but their robes and pieces of cloth stand out and are the focal point as they are up close in the paint...

 Art Analysis of the Northern Renaissance                Portrait of a Man (Self-Portrait?) , oil on oak by Jan van Eyck, 1433; in the National Gallery, London . Jan Van Eyck is, undeniably, one of the most famous artists of the North Renaissance period. His assumed self-portrait piece, Portrait of a Man, depicts humanism at its finest. As we learned in our Northern and Italian Renaissance unit, there was a strong focus on humans at this time. Van Eyck's details of his own face really bring him to life for the average citizen, from the wrinkles on his face to the stern look in his eye. I immediately noticed his blood shot eyes. I thought about how this artist may be a middle-aged man who has been up late hours painting and has not slept well. At the same time, his bold, red turban on his head gives a sense of royalty, which was also important at this time. I also find it interesting that the turban is wrapped around his head in...