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30,000 BCE
Cave Art (Paleolithic Era)
Much of Paleolithic art was centered around animals and humans that are meant to represent naturalism and abstraction. This is a pure example of how the cavemen spent their time drawing out detailed art of the animals they hunted. -
30,000 BCE
Cave Art (Paleolithic Era)
Cave Art allowed the cavemen to draw what they felt and communicate with one another. It helped us understand now what they did and how they lived in order to explain their daily life. The art would showcase people, animals, and possibly deities. They often used resources like crushed berries to often draw on the walls. -
30,000 BCE
Chauvet-Pont-d'Arc Cave
The cave at Chauvet-Pont-d'Arc is over 1,000 feet in length with two large chambers. Charcoal was depicted to be used to make draw and the cave's drawings depict other large animals including horses, mammoths, musk ox, ibex, reindeer, aurochs, megaloceros deer, panther, and owl. -
28,000 BCE
Venus of Willendorf (The Woman of Willendorf)
While sculptures were not as present during this time era, there was this piece that gathered attention and dates back very early in the prehistoric art era. Often, women were utilized in art to represent fertility, and their body showcased this in the form of this sculpture. It was like their representation of their body and a bit of an abstract way to represent a woman's body as the proportions are off. -
15,000 BCE
Stone Age Art (Mesolithic Era)
The term "Mesolithic art" refers to all arts and crafts created between the end of the Paleolithic Ice Age and the beginning of farming, with its cultivation and animal husbandry. It began the Stone Age art era where the Paleolithic man was a hunter-gatherer who followed the herds of reindeer and other game animals in a continuous quest for food. This was showcased in this art piece, not much different than Paleolithic Cave Art to show good luck for a hunt. -
10,000 BCE
Rock Paintings (Mesolithic Era)
As climates begin to change, so does the age of new art. As warmer climates begin to take over, cave people began to push past their boundaries and move their art to areas such as vertical cliffs or sheer faces of natural rock, often protected from the elements by outcroppings or overhangs.Much like in this painting, Mesolithic Art shifted to focus more on humans instead of animals engaged in hunting or rituals. More color was also utilized. -
6000 BCE
Ancient Pottery and Terracotta Sculpture (Neolithic Era)
With the abandonment of focusing on animals and hunting, the Neolithic Era introduced yet another new art in the form of sculpture and pottery. Much of pottery began at different eras depending on the country you look at, but this piece focuses on the form of a goddess of Catal Huyuk. -
3300 BCE
Neolithic Period in China
Neolithic Era began in 10000 BCE for China, and the artistic tradition dates back to around this time. Artifacts could be found like basins with intricate designs like in this photo that detailed red and black pigments. Pottery with painted decoration is among the most remarkable of the archaeological remains from Neolithic cultures that flourished along the banks of the Yellow River. Depending on what area of China, there are different art traditions, and this is just one of many -
3000 BCE
Ancient Egyptian Art (Palette of Narmer)
Much of Egyptian Art consisted of imagery and symbolism that not many could depict or understand. Royal imagery was also popular during this time and showcased or revolved around human forms. However, much of what Egyptian Art is known for is its consistency as they viewed it as stability, divine balance, and a right of their culture. The Palette of King Narmer was a good example, as it depicted rituals and the culture was preserved. -
3000 BCE
Ancient Egyptian Art (Tombs)
Art could also be found on tombs. These images, whether statues or relief, were designed to benefit a divine or deceased recipient. The art though, was originally not meant to be seen by anyone else and was sacred. They were often decorated with murals of bright colors and important past figures in their history. -
2580 BCE
Ancient Egyptian Art (Pyramids)
Egyptian architecture had a certain presence that made them stand out. They were massive and became the pillars that represented the three rulers during the time. The pyramids also were a reference to the sun, all pointing upwards to serve as a ramp for the pharaohs to ascend to the sky. The Great Pyramids of Giza, depicted here, is one of the seven wonders of the world and served as the foundation of other pyramids or architecture. -
1400 BCE
Ancient Greek Art (Bronze Age)
In this era of art, cultures began to spread and flourish in a way that differentiated Greek art from any other form. Mycenaean culture flourished on the Greek mainland in the Late Bronze Age, from about 1600 to 1100 B.C.E. This became known as the "age of the heroes" and the art took form in that of the epics of Homer. -
600 BCE
The Classical Orders
The Doric order is the simplest and shortest, with little imagination put into it. Ionic columns are taller and thinner, with a decorative foot and more details. And the most complex order is the Corinthian order, which is tall and thin and features a decorative foot, volutes and acanthus leaves on the capital. While the order began in 600 BCE, it had spread out throughout the years as it became more complex. -
500 BCE
Ancient Greek Art (Archaic period)
A jump to this era, free standing sculptures began to become immensely popular and depicted statues of youths and maidens. The Strangford Apollo is an example of this art form and it was produced in marble. The male figures, usually in the form of naked young men, acted both as grave markers and as votive offerings.The female figures served similar functions, but differed from their male counterparts in that they were elaborately draped. -
480 BCE
Ancient Greek Art (Classical Age)
Historically, democracy began in this time era and emerged in Athens and changed their culture. Athens began to flourish in terms of philosophy, literature, and art and architecture. It still managed to focus on heroes and depictions of history or mythology. -
323 BCE
Ancient Greek Art (Hellenistic period)
Following the death of Alexander and the division of his empire, the Hellenistic period (323-31 B.C.E.) saw Greek power and culture extended across the Middle East and as far as the Indus Valley. A lot of art was based on his heroic acts and depicted him in the highest forms of sculptures. It was clear that many men had full beards, but Alexander remained clean shaven. -
1330
The Dark Ages
Petrarch, who coined the term "Dark Ages" believed that the Dark Ages was a period of intellectual darkness due to the loss of the classical learning, which he saw as light. The visual arts became expansive then, with more artwork and this began where the royals asked for cathedrals, churches, sculpture, painting, textiles, manuscripts, jewelry and ritual items from artists. -
1330
Medieval Art (Manuscripts)
Manuscripts became a popular form of art in this era. While they have documented manuscripts for a longer period of time, this was when they were most addressed. Books that contain artistic decoration were called illuminated manuscripts. Manuscripts that survive from the European Middle Ages are generally religious books that reflect the canon, doctrine and practices of Christianity, though there are Jewish and Muslim books and other types of books that survive from this time period as well. -
Nov 22, 1423
Gentile da Fabriano, Adoration of the Magi
Many people during this era took their time to invest in art. Royals or those who were affluent enough made commissions like this to display. The array of colors and layers of silver and gold paint were etched in and it's importance was seen widely. The altarpiece depicts several gospel stories surrounding the birth of Christ as they were retold in the Middle Ages and Renaissance. An adventure is told throughout the painting in different forms. -
1434
Renaissance (Northern)
This was a period of rebirth of classical antiquity In Italy. Some scholars argue that it is actually a time where classical traditions were picked back up with different emphasis. This era brought about incredible changes, and the birth of perfection of oil paint and still focused a lot of work on religious beliefs. This was done by Jan van Eyck, a Northern artist who changed the field or art with incredible imagery and symbolism in works like The Arnolfini Portrait. -
1483
Life of Christ
The Life of Christ was a popular form of art during this era. Here, in The Annunciation by Fra Angelico, the angel Gabriel visits Mary to announce to her that she will be the mother of God. At this moment, Jesus Christ miraculously conceived, and God is made flesh and blood. -
1483
High Renaissance Art
This time era was revolutionary for artwork. Many artists flourished and became widely known for their pieces like the Mona Lisa and the Last Supper. It was described as the "pinnacle" of Renaissance art and a lot of the work focused on humanistic features or religious means and propaganda. Artists like Leonardo da Vinci set their name in stone during this era with their innovative strategies of artwork and new flare they added. -
1495
High Renaissance (The Last Supper)
Leonardo da Vinci was credited as the one who created and formed the art style of the High Renaissance. It depicts the dramatic scene and connected moments in the Gospels like in which Jesus declares that one of the Apostles will betray him and later institutes the Eucharist. da Vinci displayed this artwork perfectly with the light tons and Jesus presented proudly in the middle with his Apostles around him. It was argued when the piece was made but it was believed to be 1495–98. -
1503
High Renaissance (Mona Lisa)
During this era, portraits were considered to be rare as only the wealthiest people could afford such a piece. It was more than a simple piece of oneself, but it showcased power and class status. The Mona Lisa became an icon of portraits and it is now the most widely known painting in the world. da Vinci had created it with such care and importance. The Mona Lisa was believed to be a portrait of the wife of a Florentine merchant. Her smile is still talked about to this day. -
1505
Venetian Art
Now, parts of other countries have taken it upon themselves to create their own powerful art pieces and traditions. The Bellinis and their peers developed a particularly Venetian style of painting characterized by deep, rich colors, an emphasis on patterns and surfaces, and a strong interest in the effects of light. Here, in the piece by Giovanni Bellini, San Zaccaria Altarpiece is a piece that convery oil paints and strong colors to strengthen their importance seemingly. -
1508
High Renaissance (Ceiling of the Sistine Chapel)
This is one of Michelangelo's most famous pieces of work. The ceiling is incredibly high and the layers of paintings on the ceiling is immeasurable. This was later commissioned by Pope Julius II and requested the ceiling to illustrate most of the important Christian biblical stories all telling stories from the beginning to the end. This timeline is also often confused as it can date anywhere between 1508-1512 -
Baroque Art
Europe was throne into turmoil during this era, Martin Luther had basically declared war against the Church and protested their views, he initiated a movement that would transform the religious, political, and artistic landscape of Europe. However, the church had fired back and utilized art to form their own standpoint against those who revolted. The power of art showcased their own propaganda and made their art pieces speak for themselves. It persuaded many and had a clear message given out. -
Romanticism in Spain
Francisco Goya was a very popular romanticism artist from Spain. He created many pieces, but in the Third of May he displayed emotions that were unspeakable and emphasized he idea of Romanticism wholeheartedly. The stench of death is almost palpable here, as bodies lay in heaps and blood is splattered across the streets. The fear and feeling of loss is felt with the body language and frightened faces of the citizens. It was a political statement against Napoleon's tyranny. -
Early Photography
Photography soon became a popular mode to art. Artists from the Renaissance onwards used a camera obscura (Latin for dark chamber), or a small hole in the wall of a darkened box that would pass light through the hole and project an upside down image of whatever was outside the box. However, it was not until the invention of a light sensitive surface by Frenchman Joseph Nicéphore Niépce that the basic principle of photography was born. View from the Window at Gras was a popular piece by him here. -
Romanticism
This was a time where artists became concerned with the spectrum and intensity of human emotion. Visual arts began to take root and underlined how important feeling was for understanding pieces of work. People were told to feel and imagine just what the artist was as they painted or created. Making political statements was a popular way to express one's views on issues currently, like Eugene Delacroix, Liberty leading the People. Political propaganda was highly recommended to voice out opinions. -
Early Photography (Daguerreotype)
The daguerreotype is a one-of-a-kind, highly detailed photographic image on a polished copper plate coated with silver. It was introduced in 1839 and became the first popular photographic medium. Viewers were fascinated with the new style and believed they were “faithful depictions of nature”. It became popularized all over the world, and the United States also took a liking to this new form and anyone could now afford to have a portrait made. Very labor-intensive process. Paris Boulevard. -
Romanticism in England
Joseph Turner's work, Slave Ship depicts emotions that only could be felt while taking a close look at the piece. The death nearing as slaves are thrown from the ship and left to perish. The beautiful sunset and colors contrast the whole depiction of death. Maybe it was supposed to be a form of irony, but the violence is showcased heavily here as a typhoon seems to swallow everyone and part the sea to drown the remaining survivors. This piece reflects the horrible cases of reality. -
Realism Art Era
Artists wanted to now focus on not just reality, but the surroundings and environment and about themselves and their own perceptions of life. Modernity was in, and modern art should be embraced was what many artists began to believe. The Industrial Revolution cemented the Modern era and modern life was about social mixing and mobility. Now, art adopted a more relaxed style like in Gustave Courbet, Les Demoiselles du bord de la Seine (Young Ladies on the Banks of the Seine). Relaxation and class. -
Modernism Art Era
The term "Modern" had begun to really shake how people lived and the eras change so much about life in general that one wonder's how art is affected. Now, urban culture and technology and middle-class centric ideals have become more widely accepted into artistic forms. While the wealthy is still presented, middle class have been collecting more money that they wish to spend on paintings to show how well they live now. -
Impressionism Art Era
Impressionism was a small movement of art and began to focus on detail with less brush strokes needed. Pieces were even known to look like they lacked a finish to them. Many Impressionists' artwork looked like sketches almost. A lot of artwork involved landscape and more contemporary work. Little movements allowed for big details and pretty artwork with a very nice atmospheric feel. The work like Claude Monet's La Gare Saint-Lazare displayed the beauty of open composition and lighter areas. -
Realism Art (Winslow Homer)
People began to look at certain characteristics of the real world and applied it into their art. Modern life began to focus on issues and life in general, which would be properly displayed in “Realism”. People’s perception of life was altering and the beauty of the life even in the most dire situations. Like the case with "The Fog Warning" by Homer, the colors and beauty of it all but the hard life of a fisherman can be seen in this piece. Such a daunting artwork but so real at the same time. -
Post-Impressionism
Van Gogh had a very interesting way to bring about his art post-Impressionism. His art showcased longer brushstrokes and took on inspirations from Japanese artists. He had repeated lines and color that stood out. He enjoyed self-portaits, and this popular one showed how much he used art to express himself. -
Starry Night
Another popular piece done by van Gogh was his piece Starry Night. The artwork was made from the view out of a window at the Saint-Paul asylum in Saint-Rémy, in southern France. He was an emotionally unstable person and used his artwork to cope. It was obvious too as it was a beautiful piece but had a sense of sorrow in it as well. The moon has the greatest light surrounding it along with the stars that blanket the night sky with the wisps of color flowing through the piece. -
Post-Impressionism
Another popular post-Impressionist artist was Paul Cezanne and his journey throughout the art world put him out of place. Whereas many other painters in this circle were concerned primarily with the effects of light and reflected color, Cézanne remained deeply committed to form. Paul Cézanne is often considered to be one of the most influential painter of the late 19th century. He popularized a boring art form like still-life and made it come alive in out of form ways like adding more depth. -
Cubism Art Era (Picasso)
At the time of his commission, Picasso hoped to cultivate a relationship with the wealthy Stein, who had already been impressed by the innovative style of Matisse. Picasso quickly completed the portrait—supposedly from memory—in a way that challenged traditional expectations of portraiture. The sharp lines and angular facial features were accentuated here along with dull colors to match the grim look the art form had created. -
Cubism Art Era
After Cézanne's death and after having met Picasso, Braque set out on a very different track, the invention of Cubism. Except for a very brief moment, the style has nothing to do with cubes. Instead, it is an extension of the formal ideas developed by Cézanne and broader perceptual ideas that became increasingly important in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These were the ideas that inspired Matisse as early as 1904 and Picasso perhaps a year or two later. -
Surrealism Art
Surrealism began in the early twentieth century. Surrealism aimed at expressing imaginative dreams and visions from conscious rational control. Historians typically introduce Surrealism as an offshoot of Dada (Dada was an art movement of the early twentieth century that emerged in Europe and New York in response to the horrors of World War I—which killed an estimated 16 million people). This piece by Salvador Dali, called the Persistence of Memory is a prime example of how odd surrealism was. -
Cubism Era (Picasso-Guernica)
This was made during the Cubism Period in response to the Spanish Civil War. Picasso responded to the Basque town of Guernica being bombed by German Nazis. He spoke out against Hitler's tyranny and the painting alone spoke volumes of how he felt towards the war. The overall tone of this painting is suffering caused by war. Innocent civilians being hurt were his target to play on people's emotions and the black and greys and white displays the raw emotions. -
Abstract Expressionism Art
This art had been created post World War II. It displayed different forms of expression. It was the first specifically American movement to achieve international influence and put New York City at the center of the western art world, a role formerly filled by Paris. Although the term "abstract expressionism" was first applied to American art in 1946 by the art critic Robert Coates, it had been first used in Germany in 1919 in the magazine Der Sturm, regarding German Expressionism. -
Pop Art Movement
Pop art was a movement marked by a fascination with popular culture. It reflected the post- war society. “Pop Art” first emerged in Great Britain, which suffered great economic hardship after the war. -
Pop Art Movement-Gold Marilyn Monroe
It was in this artistic and cultural context that Pop artists developed their distinctive style of the early 1960s. Characterized by clearly rendered images of popular subject matter, it seemed to assault the standards of modern painting, which had embraced abstraction as a reflection of universal truths and individual expression. A popular piece Gold Marilyn Monroe by Andy Warhol showcased how different pop art was from any other art movement.
