Art history is the study of the visual arts, their development, and their impact on human culture and society. Art history covers a wide range of periods and styles, from the ancient to the contemporary, and from the realistic to the abstract. Here is a brief overview of some of the major art history periods and their characteristics:
– Ancient Art (before 500 CE): This period includes the art of ancient civilizations, such as Egypt, Greece, Rome, China, India, and others. Ancient art reflects the beliefs, values, and practices of these cultures, and often depicts gods, myths, rulers, and everyday life. Ancient art is usually characterized by naturalism, symmetry, and geometric patterns.
– Medieval Art (500-1400 CE): This period encompasses the art of the Middle Ages, which was influenced by Christianity, Islam, and Byzantium. Medieval art is often religious, symbolic, and stylized, and includes architecture, sculpture, painting, and manuscript illumination. Medieval art is usually divided into sub-periods, such as Early Christian, Romanesque, and Gothic.
– Renaissance Art (1400-1600 CE): This period marks the rebirth of classical learning and art in Europe, especially in Italy. Renaissance art is inspired by ancient Greek and Roman art, and emphasizes humanism, realism, perspective, and individual expression. Renaissance art includes painting, sculpture, architecture, and printmaking, and features artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Botticelli.
– Baroque
Art History Timelineart History Periods image
