Dutch Baroque Art

Context and Changes

• Significant changes in art context due to economics, society, religion, and politics.
• Art is divided based on geography and religion:
  • Southern Netherlands (Flanders): Catholic monarchy under Spanish crown (Habsburgs dynasty).
  • Northern Netherlands (Dutch Republic): Protestant republic with societal changes and middle class growth.

Dutch Baroque: The Golden Age of Painting

• Increased demand for art-making by non-church patrons.
• Popular art forms:
  • History Paintings: Large-scale mythological, historic, or religious events.
  • Portraiture: Highly popular during this period.
  • Genre Painting: Scenes from daily life.
  • Landscape and Still Lifes: Important to Northern Dutch people.

Peter Paul Rubens

• Catholic, German-born artist of Dutch descent.
• Developed a pan-European style combining influences from Michelangelo, Titian, and Caravaggio.
• Known for:
  • Being multilingual and diplomatic.
  • Becoming a successful art dealer in addition to creating art.
• Key Works and Influence:
  • Art advisor to the King of Spain and court painter to Charles I of England.
  • Known for 'Rubensian physique' (curvy female nudes).

Historical Context

• 1567: Philip II of Spain's invasion of the Netherlands as part of the Counter-Reformation.
• Northern Netherlands prospered as a Protestant republic while Southern Netherlands remained under Spanish absentee rule.

Notable Works and Themes

Allegory of Sight (1617)

• Oil on wood, part of a series based on the five senses.
• Includes symbols: reproduction of Michelangelo's sculptures, Madonna and Child, Habsburg double eagle, etc.
• Features a fictive environment, blending real and imagined elements.

Maria de' Medici Cycle

• Commissioned by Maria de' Medici to gain favor upon her return from exile.
• 24 paintings celebrating her life, marriage, and reign.
• The Arrival: Depicts Maria’s return to France, met by allegorical figures and gods.

Elevation of the Cross (1610)

• A triptych with a biblical theme, influenced by Greek sculptures like the Laocoon.
• Unified composition across three panels with significant visual innovation.
• Use of dramatic lighting and strong diagonal elements.