Renaissance and Mannerism: A Comprehensive Guide to Art and Architecture
Introduction
The Renaissance, a period of significant cultural and artistic transformation, emerged in Florence during the early sixteenth century. This movement marked a revival of classical forms and a shift in the conception of art’s purpose and function.
Renaissance Art and Architecture
Painting
- Male-centered focus
- Realism enhanced by perspective
- New techniques: oil on canvas, embossing
Sculpture
- Emphasis on realism and human individuality
- Study of body and expression
- Monumentality and curved lines
- Return to classical principles
- Use of perspective laws
- Independence from architecture
Architecture
- Classical influences
- Arches, barrel vaults, and metal straps
- Symmetry and regularity
- Rationalization of urban cities
- Churches, palaces, villas, and fortresses
- Brunelleschi’s significant contributions
Mannerism
Mannerism, a subsequent artistic movement, emerged as a departure from the Renaissance. It was characterized by:
Painting
- Forced positions
- Arbitrary use of colors
- Unreality of space
- Balance and complexity
Sculpture
- Use of serpentina (contorted helical shape)
Architecture
- Arbitrary alterations to building proportions
Renaissance and Mannerist Masterpieces
Renaissance
- Church of San Lorenzo (Brunelleschi, Florence)
- San Pietro in Montorio (Bramante, Rome)
- David (Donatello, Florence)
- Pietà (Michelangelo, Rome)
- The Birth of Venus (Botticelli, Florence)
- Danaë (Titian, Madrid)
Mannerism
- The Burial of Count Orgaz (El Greco, Toledo)