The Baroque Age

Question 1

What motivated the Baroque architectural movement in the first place?

Answer 1

Martin Luther & John Calvin

The Protestant Reformation of 1517

Question 2

Time periods of the Baroque

Answer 2

The Italian Baroque 1580-1800
Early Baroque 1580-1620
High Baroque 1620-1670 (Bernini and Borromini)
Late 1670-1800

Question 3

Main points of the Italian Baroque

Answer 3

1. Baroque may be highly complex, or super-giant buildings – or both.
2. Italian Baroque emphasizes use of curvilinear, organic forms: C & S Brackets, Ovals, etc. The Oval replaces the circle as shape of choice.
3. Italian Baroque employs richly embellished classical architectural forms
4. Italian Baroque often combines sculptural and painted decoration with architecture to create overall effect
5. Use of many materials common, i.e.: Polychromatic stone & marble, plaster, bronze, colored glass, etc.
6. Italian Baroque is theatrical
7. Italian Baroque is the physical and artistic expression of grandeur