Kunsthistorisches Museum

We went to this museum on May 26, 2010, and I appreciated the focus on the Renaissance and Baroque art. When entering the museum, I could see that this was a place filled with history. It was built in the Vienna Ringstrasse in 1891, which shows how many years the museum has thrived. I particularly enjoyed this museum because we were able to explore and find artwork that spoke to us. I found artwork in several categories of which I can compare: Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo styles. I noticed the usage of color and texture differs as one observes these time periods.

            One popular Renaissance painter was Titian, and I observed his artwork entitled Gypsy Madonna. Titian was influenced by Georgini, and this was one of his earliest works. The Gypsy Madonna reflects the characteristics of high renaissance through simplicity and harmonious images. This picture has an unusual image because the Virgin Mary is depicted with dark hair and skin. In 16^th century Venice, blond hair and pale skin were considered beautiful. Having a different vision of beauty makes this painting unique, and it explains the title of “Gypsy.”

Focus on Renaissance and Baroque Art

            In the Baroque time period, Antonio de Pereda painted “Allegory of Vanitas.” The protective spirit in the center of this painting balances out this picture. It is clear that Baroque painters liked to illustrate deep emotions, which seems to contrast the Rococo’s lighthearted nature.  It is obvious that the Renaissance focused more on realism while the Rococo and Baroque styles centered on the beauty of life. In the Rococo art, Rosalba Carriera painted Friedrich August II in 1714. In this portrait, one can see a cheerful mood and light coloration. This increase in pastel painting symbolizes a time period where Baroque artists gave up symmetry and became more playful. I like observing the contrasts between the Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo styles.