Renaissance Art

Catalog description

What was "the Renaissance"? This course surveys major artistic currents in Europe between c. 1400 and 1600. Topics include the revival of Classical antiquity, renewed interest in the nude figure, the fascination with the grotesque, humanism, collecting, portraits and identity, and innovations in devotional art. While focusing on Italy and Northern Europe, we will consider their transcultural encounters across and beyond Europe. Students will become familiar with a variety of Renaissance media and genres, such as paintings, prints, sculptures, architecture, and decorative arts. Current topic description: What was "the Renaissance"? This course surveys major artistic currents in Europe between c. 1400 and 1600. Topics include the revival of Classical antiquity, renewed interest in the nude figure, the fascination with the grotesque, humanism, collecting, portraits and identity, and innovations in devotional art. While focusing on Italy and Northern Europe, we will consider their transcultural encounters across and beyond Europe. Students will become familiar with a variety of Renaissance media and genres, such as paintings, prints, sculptures, architecture, and decorative arts.