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Works of art from three periods: Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo

University of the People

AHIST 1401: Art History

Jeanette Lamb

12 July 2023
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Introduction

The role of the artist has seen a dramatic shift throughout history, from unknown artisans

or craftsmen to public figures and creative geniuses. This transformation can be observed and

evaluated through a number of iconic works of art created during three major stylistic periods:

the Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo. A deeper understanding of the crucial role of the artist in

each of these periods allows us to comprehend how the perception of the creator has evolved

over time.

The Renaissance

The Renaissance era is credited with setting the stage for the emergence of the artist in

public consciousness. During this time, great artworks such as “the Sistine Chapel ceiling” which

was painted by the Italian master Michelangelo were seen as miracles of the human mind and a

direct reflection of the artist’s genius. This reverence for the artist helped to ensure that no matter

the cost, patrons would pay generously for exceptional pieces and those who created them were

elevated to the level of celebrity status. In addition, “to aid the viewer who must stand several

metres below, Michelangelo used the technique of contrasting colours next to each other” (World

History Encyclopedia, n.d). Michelangelo’s fame only grew as patrons from around the world

requested his works.

The Baroque

The emergence of the Baroque period firmly entrenched the position of the artist as a

celebrated figure in society. During this time, artists such as Rembrandt and Caravaggio created

some of their most powerful and iconic works of all time. There are many pieces of artwork to
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give as an example. Most of the paintings were based on light and dark, colours and shapes.

However, “Museumgoers may have lost the close, common knowledge of the Bible that stoked

Baroque religious painting with immediacy in the eyes of its contemporaries” (SFGATE, n.d).

This art was seen as daring and provocative, often aiming to shock with intense emotions and

bizarre imagery.

The Rococo

Finally, the manifestation of the Rococo period offered a more polished style for artists to

explore, most notably with the works of François Boucher and Jean-Honoré Fragonard. One of

Fragonard’s significant paintings, “the Swing” (1767) is full of vibrant colours and elements.

According to Britannica (n.d), Fragonard infused his personal touch into the subject of the swing,

which traditionally symbolizes fickleness, through the incorporation of numerous clever and

amusing elements. Moreover, “In the foreground, a tiny lapdog—a symbol of fidelity—raises the

alarm by yapping loudly, but the husband takes no notice” (Britannica, n.d). In this sense, the

artist’s own personality and affectations became part of the artwork and increased its value and

appeal.

In conclusion, it is clear that the role of the artist has drastically evolved over time. What

once may have been relegated to merely a skilled trade is now seen as a vital element of art,

whereby the artist’s own character and vision can be seen reflected in their work in a very real

sense. Works of the Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo periods all capture different aspects of

this transformation, wherein the artist has become an essential part of the piece. As such, it is

clear that the role of the artist has evolved from a skilled craftsman to a respected and

appreciated figure in society.

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Word Count: 534

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References

World History Encyclopedia. (n.d.). Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel Ceiling. Retrieved from

https://www.worldhistory.org/article/1607/michelangelos-sistine-chapel-ceiling/

SFGate. (n.d.). Comparing and Contrasting Two Masters: How [Title of the Article]. Retrieved

from

https://www.sfgate.com/entertainment/article/Comparing-and-contrasting-two-masters-

how-2501510.php

Britannica. (n.d.). The Swing (painting by Fragonard). Retrieved from

https://www.britannica.com/topic/The-Swing-painting-by-Fragonard