Rococo style

Antoine Watteau (1717 A.D.)

Pilgrimage to Cythera

Oil on canvas

    Watteu is known as one of the leading French artists of the Rococo period. He is recognized as the creator of a type of painting known as the fete galante (amorous festival) of which this piece exemplifies. The fete galante is characterized by the outdoor festivities or entertainment of noble individuals and members of high-society. Watteu was also influenced by the bright, prominent use of color associated with Rubens' works. He was influential in establishing Rococo as a prominent style during the 18th century, and worked for many wealthy patrons of the time. Like other works of the Rococo period Pilgrimage to Cythera features elaborate decorations and presents a cheery, picturesque scene.

Northern Baroque Art Pt. 2

Peter Claesz (1630s A.D.)

Vanitas Still Life

Oil on panel

  Claesz's Vanitas Still Life is a prime example of the symbolism which Baroque artists sought to subtly include in their works. The exposed time piece--which scientifically details the inner workings of the item, the cracked nut, tipped glass, and skull are all symbols of life's temporality. Claesz displays his mastery of perception by including himself and the interior of the room as a reflection in the convex ball on the table.

Northern Baroque Art Pt. 1

Peter Paul Rubens (1622-1625 A.D.)

Arrival of Marie de’ Medici at Marseilles 

Oil on canvas

  This piece by Rubens captures the welcoming of Marie de' Medici to Marseilles by a congregation of people and soldiers. Neptune, his three daughters, and other figures look on from the bottom half of the piece. Rubens attempts to portray weighty, muscular figures whose skin or clothes hang and fold in realistic fashion. The cluttered and frenzied action in the piece is separated from and and surrounds the quiet regal quality of Marie de' Medici with her retainers near the center of the piece. The background is smoky and indistinct, but gives an impression of a ship's mast and rigging. The splashing characters in the foreground support the impression of a waterfront setting.