In the middle of the seventeenth century the Baroque era in Italy reached its height. We meet that most dazzling of all-rounders Gianlorenzo Bernini, the strange architecture of Borromini and see some of the spectacular ceilings that were painted to inspire awe and wonder. But Italy was not alone and we start by looking at the work of Velasquez and the Spanish Baroque.
Course aim
A survey of the spectacular developments in art and architecture in Italy in the middle and later seventeenth century, including Bernini, Borromini and many others. We will also look at the work of Velasquez and his artistic context.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- This course is for beginners and improvers
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Describe the achievement of Gianlorenzo Bernini
- Discuss what made the art of seventeenth century Spain, and Velasquez in particular, so distinctive
- Recognise the individual contributions of Borromini and Pietro da Cortona
- Increase your knowledge and enjoyment of the period.
What else do I need to know?
You do not need anything though you might like to look at some of the pictures on the internet. The Prado in particular has an excellent website
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