Art of The Western World Season 1 Episode 5 Realms of Light: The Baroque

The Art of the Western World season 1 episode 5, "Realms of Light: The Baroque," explores the intricacies of the Baroque movement in art. The Baroque period emerged in the 17th century as a response to the Counter-Reformation, which was a movement within the Catholic Church to combat the growth of Protestantism. The Baroque period is characterized by ornate and dramatic elements, as artists sought to evoke strong emotions in their audiences.

The episode takes viewers on a journey through some of the most iconic Baroque works of art, showcasing how different artists from different regions expressed the same aesthetic in different ways. The episode opens with an exploration of the Baroque style in Italy, where the movement first began. Italian Baroque art is known for its dramatic lighting, rich colors, and grandiose style, as can be seen in works such as Caravaggio's "The Calling of Saint Matthew."

The episode then moves on to explore the Baroque movement in Spain, where it took on a more religious and mystical character. The Spanish Baroque style is exemplified by the work of artists such as Diego Velázquez, who painted religious figures in a highly realistic and naturalistic style. The episode also delves into the work of Francisco de Zurbarán, whose paintings often featured sharply lit depictions of religious subjects.

Next, the episode takes viewers to France, where the Baroque style was infused with a sense of grandeur and extravagance. French Baroque art is often characterized by its ornate decoration and opulent style, as seen in the work of artists such as Nicolas Poussin and Claude Lorrain. The episode also explores the work of Georges de La Tour, a French Baroque painter who was known for his use of dramatic lighting.

The episode concludes with a look at the Baroque movement in The Netherlands, where it took on a more subdued and realistic character. Dutch Baroque art is often characterized by its attention to detail and its use of naturalistic lighting. This can be seen in the work of artists such as Rembrandt van Rijn, who was known for his portraits and his masterful use of light and shadow.

Overall, "Realms of Light: The Baroque" provides a comprehensive overview of the Baroque movement in art, showing how it evolved and developed across different regions of Europe. Through a careful analysis of some of the most iconic Baroque works of art, the episode explores the techniques, themes, and aesthetics of this complex and influential artistic movement.