Which artist is not from the Baroque period? This question often puzzles art enthusiasts and historians alike. The Baroque period, spanning from the early 17th to the mid-18th century, was characterized by its dramatic, ornate, and emotionally charged art. However, not all renowned artists of this era were strictly Baroque in style. In this article, we will explore the works of various artists and identify the one who defies the Baroque label.
The Baroque period witnessed a plethora of talented artists who left an indelible mark on the art world. Artists such as Caravaggio, Bernini, and Velázquez are often hailed as the quintessential representatives of this era. However, there is one artist who, despite being a contemporary, stands apart from the Baroque movement: Édouard Manet.
Édouard Manet, born in 1832, was a French painter who lived and worked during the late 19th century. His works, although created during a time when the Baroque influence was still prevalent, did not conform to the Baroque aesthetic. Manet’s art is often associated with the transition from Realism to Impressionism, a movement that sought to capture the fleeting effects of light and color.
One of Manet’s most famous works, “Le déjeuner sur l’herbe” (The Luncheon on the Grass), is a prime example of his non-Baroque style. This painting, completed in 1863, depicts a group of nude and clothed figures enjoying a picnic in a park. The composition, with its bold colors and flattened perspective, contrasts sharply with the dramatic and detailed Baroque works of the time. Manet’s use of light and shadow is also distinct from the Baroque style, as he preferred to depict the effects of natural light rather than the intense chiaroscuro found in Baroque art.
Another reason why Manet is not considered a Baroque artist is his focus on contemporary subjects. While Baroque artists often depicted religious or historical scenes, Manet’s works were inspired by everyday life. His paintings, such as “Olympia” (1863) and “A Bar at the Folies-Bergère” (1882), showcase the modern urban environment and its inhabitants. This shift in focus from the divine to the mundane is a hallmark of the Realist and Impressionist movements, which emerged in the late 19th century.
In conclusion, Édouard Manet is the artist who is not from the Baroque period. His works, although created during a time when Baroque influences were still present, defied the traditional Baroque aesthetic by focusing on contemporary subjects, using a flattened perspective, and depicting the effects of natural light. Manet’s contributions to the art world have helped to shape the transition from Realism to Impressionism, making him a pivotal figure in the history of art.
