Medieval/Romanesque
The age of the cathedral and massively constructed
“Roman” style buildings. During this era, the strength
and glory of the Church was prevalent in art and
architecture, and some of the most famous cathedrals
were built.
Renaissance
This period was the rebirth or revival of the arts. The
popularity of learning, literature, classical art, and
architecture in Italy during the 14th century later
spread throughout Europe. In 1480, the Domus Aureus
(Golden House) - erected by Nero in 64 AD - was
excavated and became known as 'le grotte' (cave).
Many of its original frescoes survived, and their motifs
and ancient style of ornamentation, called 'grotteschi'
(grotesque) after 'grotte', became extremely popular
during the Renaissance, influencing many prominent
artists such as Raphael, Michelangelo, Ghirlandio, and
Pinturicchio. The Renaissance lasted from the 14th to the 15th century,
bringing about the change from Medieval to “modern”
times.
Baroque
A style characteristic of extravagance. Bold, curving,
encrusted, dramatic ornamentation was the style that
developed from the early 17th to mid-18th century. Often
gaudy, bizarre and complex, with the symmetrical aspect
forming balance; art from the Baroque period is
unmistakable.
Rococo
This early 18th century art style originated in France.
Rococo style featured excessive flora, scrolls and
animals, in an asymmetrical form. Still elaborate, and
sometimes characterized as an extension of the Baroque
period, Rococo was both fanciful and ornate, with a
lighter, more graceful expression than its predecessor.
Neo-Classic
In the late 17th and 18th centuries, a revival in the
classic literature and simplicity, this period was known
for it’s ideals of restraint, reason and form. The
decorative arts were renewed, characterized by symmetry
and simple elegance.
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Styles
19th century ‘Isms
Between 1800 and 1899, a new era arose with many
different popular styles and movements. The 19th century
was a time of “isms”, where artists experimented with
new styles and ideas. Romanticism, Realism,
Impressionism, and Symbolism all came about during this
fruitful era. Artist wanted to recreate and express the
real world with bright, rich, passionate colors and
dynamic movements.
Art Deco/Nouveau
Early to mid 1900s was a time of decorative revelation.
Artists began using elaborate geometric designs with
plastics and glass to create the famous style we know
today. The use of flowing, sinuous interwoven lines,
along with animals, flowers, and leaves became the ever
popular “look” of the 20’s, 30’s and 40’s.
Modern/Contemporary
The cutting edge style of contemporary came from the
desire to change everything about the previous era of
sweeping, curvy movement. Modular shapes and hard edges
became the new look. European style, particularly Danish
and Scandinavian influence is becoming increasingly
popular in both architectural and decorative arts.
Today, this idea is being blended into a newer style,
mixing modern architecture with classic accessories,
forming a style we call “classic transitional”.
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