History of Western Art Since the 15th Century Term Paper

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History Of Western Art Since the 15th Century

History of Western Art since the 13th Century

Throughout the centuries the history of Western art has been continually evolving. Part of the reason for this, is because the different influences would cause a shift in the various impressions that were created. To fully understand how Western art was influenced since the 13th century requires: comparing the stylistic qualities of Lacoon and His Sons to the Weighting of Souls, contrasting the stylistic qualities of the 13th century Bible with Christ Entering Jerusalem, determining the significance of Renaissance confidence and analyzing the canvases of the Bruegel's paintings. Together, these different elements will provide the greatest insights as to how Western art has evolved since the 13th century.

Compare the stylistic qualities of Laocoon and His Sons, (an ancient Greek sculpture) and the Weighing of Souls (a medieval, French Romanesque relief) both carved in stone.

The stylistic qualities of Laocoon and His Sons are a depiction of him along with his sons being killed by the Greek god Poseidon. This is because he was Trojan priest that was questioning if it was wise to be taking the Trojan horse into Troy. The statue shows the events that are occurring, by embracing a sense of mysticism with realism. This is important, because it helps to give the impression of appreciation and respect for what took place (based upon this realism in the art work itself).

The Weighing of Souls is designed to give similar kind of impression. The difference is that they are using St. Michael looking down at everyone in judgment (during the second coming of Christ). This is important, because it shows how both statues are leaving everyone with the overwhelming feeling of being looked down upon by supernatural deities. (Lanahans, n.d.) (Dobson, 2000)

When you compare the two, they are different in that Laocoon and His Sons is serving as a historical lesson (from ancient Greece). Where, the statue is highlighting a sense of realism and mysticism. While the Weighting of Souls, is designed to create a sense of respect and awe about the future events. As this statute, is designed to create of respect, by intertwining various religious ideals. This is important, because it shows how the Weighting of Souls is focused on future religious events, while Laocoon and His Sons is telling a story of the past (from a mythological perspective).

Compare the stylistic qualities of the 13th Century Bible page showing Louis IX and Blanche Castille, a Gothic work, with Giotto's Christ Entering Jerusalem of the 14th Century. Giotto's work was revolutionary for his time. What are the differences?

The 13th century Bible is taking a more conservative approach when it comes to art. In this case, the emphasis is on how the various images are represented based upon the interpretation of the scripture and religion. At the same time, King Louis IX is trying to show that he is a saint, through placing him on the same level in painting as other religious scholars and icons. As these factors, are causing the artist to paint a simplistic view, telling a religious story about the glory of God and the King. This is important, because it shows how the 13th century Bible is trying to instill a… [END OF PREVIEW]