Renaissance Humanism and the Scientific Revolution
Renaissance Humanism
Some historians link the start of the Renaissance to the fall of Constantinople in 1453, but it arguably began in 14th-century Italy, lasting beyond the 16th century. The Renaissance was a diverse cultural and philosophical movement. A key aspect of this era was Humanism, originating as an educational program focused on poetry, rhetoric, history, and philosophy. Humanism involved rediscovering Greco-Roman literature and thought, evolving into a broader philosophical movement
Read MoreItalian Renaissance Painting: From Gothic to Mannerism
Italian Painting
From Gothic to Renaissance
In the Gothic period, painters emerged who departed from the Byzantine style and took the first steps toward the Renaissance, which consolidated in the 15th century. The most important changes are:
- The retablo becomes less important and independent “table” paintings emerge.
- There is a growing concern with the representation of:
- Landscape and nature
- Physical beauty, including the nude
- Volume
- Light and its effects on bodies and elements within the painting
- Painting
Romanesque Architecture, Sculpture, and Painting: A Comprehensive Guide
Romanesque Architecture: Monasteries and Churches
The Monastery
Monasteries were complexes of medieval buildings where monks lived, prayed, and worked. These self-sufficient communities served as religious, cultural, political, economic, and artistic centers. The Benedictine reform, originating from the Cluny monastery, standardized monastic life across the West. St. Benedict of Nursia established rules in the 6th century that dictated the monks’ schedules and activities, including prayer, labor
Read MoreCultural Content, Beliefs, and Values in Society
Cultural Content
No institution, social event, or human relationship can be understood properly unless we take into account the expectations, ideas, beliefs, values, and knowledge involved. Everywhere people act on the basis of their knowledge and belief, and if anything is culturally defined or believed to be real, it is real in its consequences. Our actions and beliefs are not sharply separated; our social life is constituted in a consistent and orderly way and, to some extent, is understandable
Read MoreArchitectural Wonders: Burgos, Notre Dame, and Las Palmas Cathedrals
HOME Sarmental BURGOS
The Sarmental Doorway is a Gothic façade on the south side of the Burgos Cathedral, dating back to 1230-1240. It’s adorned with high-relief and in-the-round sculptures, creating a captivating display of imagery. The stone sculptural groups are integrated into the flared front, typical of Gothic cathedrals.
The Program
The iconographic program of the doorway centers around the Maiestas Domini, conveying an apocalyptic message comparable to the Puerta Real de Chartres.
- Tympanum:
Baroque and Renaissance Art: A Comprehensive Overview
Baroque Art in Italy
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain’s backdrop is the Palazzo Poli, featuring a facade with Corinthian pilasters connecting the two floors. The fountain’s theme, “Taming the Waters,” is depicted through the interplay of water and rockwork. Two Tritons guide Neptune’s chariot-shaped shell, each controlling a seahorse. A robustly modeled triumphal arch is superimposed in the center. The central niche framing Neptune has free-standing columns for enhanced light and shadow effects.
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