7 min read•january 26, 2023
Charly Castillo
Laurie Accede
Charly Castillo
Laurie Accede
The materials, processes, and techniques used by artists in early European and Colonial America were shaped by the availability of materials, the artistic traditions of the time, and the changing technological advances. In this guide, we'll be giving an overview of the materials, techniques, and processes associated with art in Early Europe and Colonial America.
Late antique architectures was created using a variety of materials, including stone, brick, and wood.
Mosaics were a popular medium, and was made by using small pieces of colored glass or stone.
Painted frescoes were also widely used on wall and ceilings, which were created by applying pigments to wet plaster.
Antique architecture had various unique elements.
Byzantine architectural elements included:
Paintings on the other hand, (as seen in one of the works below ⬇️), involved the use of religious icons, whose bodies are frontal and symmetrical for the most part.
Islamic art was created using a variety of materials including various pigments, metalwork, textiles (to create elaborate carpets), ceramics, and stone masonry.
During the medieval period, the primary materials used in art were pigments made from natural sources that were applied to surfaces such as vellum, which is similar to parchment.
Romanesque architecture primarily used different types of stone like marble and limestone.
Textiles were also used. (see the Bayeux Tapestry)
Materials in Gothic art included stone, glass, woodwork and numerous illuminated manuscripts made with vellum and decorated with pigments and gold.
During the Renaissance, new materials, such as oil paint and tempera, which allowed for a greater range of colors and more realistic representation.
Architecture continued to use stone masonry
Fresco was also used.
The Renaissance was divided into three main sections in this course: the Northern Renaissance, the Early Renaissance and the High Renaissance.
Techniques in the Northern Renaissance include:
Techniques during the Early Renaissance include:
The growing importance of proportions and the use of light
Paintings included the use of linear perspective (making a painting or drawing look dimensional on a 2D surface through 3 elements: a vanishing point, horizon line, and orthogonals)
Techniques during the High Renaissance include:
Mannerism was primarily an artistic movement that emerged in the 16th century as a response to the ideals of balance and classical idealization of the High Renaissance. Since most materials used during this period was similar to the Renaissance, the unique characteristics of Mannerism art included:
The Baroque period considered of similar mediums to the previous artistic movements. However, most sculptures were made from marble.
Anglo-Saxon minuscule
: Anglo-Saxon minuscule is a type of handwriting used in England during the early Middle Ages. It features small, angular letters that are closely spaced together.Apse
: An apse refers to a semicircular or polygonal recess at the end of the nave in a basilica, typically housing an altar.Arabesques
: Arabesques are intricate, decorative patterns characterized by flowing lines and organic shapes. They are often found in Islamic art and architecture.Archivolts
: Archivolts are decorative bands or moldings that frame and surround an archway. They can be adorned with sculptures or intricate designs, adding visual interest to architectural structures.Atrium
: An atrium is an open courtyard or central space found in ancient Roman houses and early Christian churches. It often features surrounding colonnades and served as a gathering place.Axially-planned church
: An axially-planned church is an architectural design where the floor plan is organized along an axis, typically with one main entrance leading to an altar at the opposite end. This layout creates a clear visual path and emphasizes linear progression within the space.Baroque
: The Baroque period refers to a style of art and architecture that emerged in Europe during the 17th century. It is characterized by grandeur, drama, and emotional intensity.Basilica
: A basilica is a large, rectangular building with a central nave and side aisles, often used as a public meeting place or for religious worship.Byzantine
: Byzantine refers to the artistic style that developed in the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantium) after the fall of Rome. It is known for its religious subject matter, rich colors, and intricate details.Centrally-planned church
: A centrally-planned church is a type of architectural design where the floor plan is symmetrical around a central point, often with a circular or polygonal shape. This layout allows for equal emphasis on all sides and creates a sense of unity within the space.Chasing
: Chasing refers to the process of ornamenting metal objects by indenting or pushing out areas using specialized tools. It creates decorative patterns and textures on metal surfaces.Chiaroscuro technique
: The chiaroscuro technique is a method of using strong contrasts between light and dark areas in an artwork to create depth and volume. It adds drama and emphasizes certain elements within the composition.Choirs (architecture)
: In architecture, choirs refer to the area of a church or cathedral where the choir and clergy are seated during religious services. It is typically located between the nave and the sanctuary.Cloisonné
: Cloisonné is an ancient technique for decorating metal objects with colored glass or enamel. Thin strips of metal (called cloisons) are soldered onto a metal surface to create compartments, which are then filled with the colored materials.Coffered Ceilings
: Coffered ceilings are decorative ceilings that are divided into a grid of recessed panels, often with intricate designs or patterns. They were commonly used in ancient Roman and Renaissance architecture.Engraving printmaking
: Engraving printmaking is a technique where an image is incised onto a metal plate, usually copper, using a sharp tool called a burin. Ink is then applied to the plate and wiped off the surface, leaving ink only in the incised lines. The plate is pressed onto paper to create a printed image.Flying Buttresses
: Flying buttresses are exterior supports used in Gothic architecture to distribute weight from tall walls or vaults to piers outside the building. They consist of an inclined strut (the buttress) connected to a vertical pier by an arch or half-arch (the flying part).Frescoes
: Frescoes are paintings created on wet plaster walls or ceilings. The pigments used in frescoes bind with the wet plaster as it dries, resulting in a durable artwork that becomes an integral part of the wall or ceiling surface.Gothic
: Gothic refers to the architectural style that emerged in Europe during the High Middle Ages (12th to 16th century). It is characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, allowing for taller and more elaborate structures.Half-Uncial script
: Half-Uncial script is a style of writing that developed in the early medieval period, characterized by rounded and simplified letterforms. It was used primarily for religious texts and manuscripts.Horror Vacui
: Horror vacui refers to the fear or dislike of empty spaces in art, resulting in filling every available space with intricate details, patterns, or decoration. It is often associated with art styles that prioritize visual complexity and abundance.Illuminated Manuscript
: An illuminated manuscript refers to a handwritten book that has been decorated with intricate illustrations, borders, and initials using bright colors and gold leaf.Jambs
: Jambs are the vertical sides of a doorway or window frame. They often serve as a decorative element and can feature sculptures or carvings.Keystone
: The keystone is the central wedge-shaped stone at the topmost part of an archway. It is crucial for maintaining the stability and integrity of the arch, as it locks all the other stones in place.Kufic calligraphy
: Kufic calligraphy is an early form of Arabic script characterized by its angular shapes and lack of diacritical marks. It was commonly used in Islamic art and architecture for decorative inscriptions.Late Antique
: Late Antique refers to the period of art and culture that emerged in the late Roman Empire, from the 3rd to the 7th century CE. It is characterized by a fusion of classical Roman elements with new influences from Christianity and other cultures.Linear Perspective
: Linear perspective is a technique used in painting to create the illusion of depth on a flat surface. It involves using converging lines that meet at a vanishing point, giving the artwork a sense of spatial accuracy.Mannerism
: Mannerism is an artistic style that emerged in the late Renaissance period, characterized by exaggerated poses, elongated figures, and complex compositions. It often deviated from the natural proportions and balance of the human form.Medieval Art
: Medieval art refers to the artistic styles and techniques that were prevalent in Europe during the Middle Ages, from the 5th to the 15th century. It encompasses various forms of visual arts such as architecture, sculpture, painting, and manuscript illumination.Mosaics
: Mosaics are artworks made by arranging small pieces of colored glass, stone, or other materials into patterns or images. They were commonly used in ancient times as decorative elements on floors and walls.Narthex
: The narthex is an entrance hall or porch located at the western end of some churches. It serves as a transitional space between outside and inside.Nave
: The nave is the central part of a church, extending from the entrance to the altar. It is where the congregation gathers for worship.New Spain
: New Spain refers to the Spanish colonial territories in North and Central America during the 16th to 19th centuries. It encompassed areas such as present-day Mexico, parts of the United States, and Central America.Pendentives
: Pendentives are curved triangular structures that support a dome by transitioning from the round base to the square shape of the building below it. They allow for the smooth transition between different shapes and provide structural stability.Rib Vaults
: Rib vaults are a type of architectural structure used in Gothic cathedrals, characterized by the intersection of diagonal ribs that create a web-like pattern. They provide structural support and allow for the distribution of weight more efficiently.Romanesque
: Romanesque refers to an architectural style prevalent in Europe from the 11th to the 12th century. It is characterized by thick walls, rounded arches, and small windows, often found in churches and castles.Sfumato technique
: The sfumato technique is a painting technique where colors and tones are blended together to create a soft, hazy effect. It is often used to create a sense of depth and atmosphere in artworks.Spolia
: Spolia refers to the reuse of existing architectural elements or decorative features in new buildings. It involves taking materials from older structures and incorporating them into newer constructions.Squinches
: Squinches are architectural elements used to transition between square walls and circular domes or arches. They are typically triangular in shape and provide structural support while creating a smooth transition.Transept
: A transept refers to an area that intersects with and crosses over the main axis (nave) of a basilica, forming the shape of a cross.Tympanum
: The tympanum is the semi-circular or triangular space above a doorway, often decorated with sculptures or reliefs. It serves as a focal point and tells a story or conveys symbolic meaning.Vellum
: Vellum is a type of parchment made from animal skin (usually calf or sheep) that has been specially prepared for writing or painting. It was widely used as a writing surface before paper became more common.Voussoirs
: Voussoirs are wedge-shaped stones that make up an arch or vault. They are carefully arranged to create a curved structure that distributes weight evenly.7 min read•january 26, 2023
Charly Castillo
Laurie Accede
Charly Castillo
Laurie Accede
The materials, processes, and techniques used by artists in early European and Colonial America were shaped by the availability of materials, the artistic traditions of the time, and the changing technological advances. In this guide, we'll be giving an overview of the materials, techniques, and processes associated with art in Early Europe and Colonial America.
Late antique architectures was created using a variety of materials, including stone, brick, and wood.
Mosaics were a popular medium, and was made by using small pieces of colored glass or stone.
Painted frescoes were also widely used on wall and ceilings, which were created by applying pigments to wet plaster.
Antique architecture had various unique elements.
Byzantine architectural elements included:
Paintings on the other hand, (as seen in one of the works below ⬇️), involved the use of religious icons, whose bodies are frontal and symmetrical for the most part.
Islamic art was created using a variety of materials including various pigments, metalwork, textiles (to create elaborate carpets), ceramics, and stone masonry.
During the medieval period, the primary materials used in art were pigments made from natural sources that were applied to surfaces such as vellum, which is similar to parchment.
Romanesque architecture primarily used different types of stone like marble and limestone.
Textiles were also used. (see the Bayeux Tapestry)
Materials in Gothic art included stone, glass, woodwork and numerous illuminated manuscripts made with vellum and decorated with pigments and gold.
During the Renaissance, new materials, such as oil paint and tempera, which allowed for a greater range of colors and more realistic representation.
Architecture continued to use stone masonry
Fresco was also used.
The Renaissance was divided into three main sections in this course: the Northern Renaissance, the Early Renaissance and the High Renaissance.
Techniques in the Northern Renaissance include:
Techniques during the Early Renaissance include:
The growing importance of proportions and the use of light
Paintings included the use of linear perspective (making a painting or drawing look dimensional on a 2D surface through 3 elements: a vanishing point, horizon line, and orthogonals)
Techniques during the High Renaissance include:
Mannerism was primarily an artistic movement that emerged in the 16th century as a response to the ideals of balance and classical idealization of the High Renaissance. Since most materials used during this period was similar to the Renaissance, the unique characteristics of Mannerism art included:
The Baroque period considered of similar mediums to the previous artistic movements. However, most sculptures were made from marble.
Anglo-Saxon minuscule
: Anglo-Saxon minuscule is a type of handwriting used in England during the early Middle Ages. It features small, angular letters that are closely spaced together.Apse
: An apse refers to a semicircular or polygonal recess at the end of the nave in a basilica, typically housing an altar.Arabesques
: Arabesques are intricate, decorative patterns characterized by flowing lines and organic shapes. They are often found in Islamic art and architecture.Archivolts
: Archivolts are decorative bands or moldings that frame and surround an archway. They can be adorned with sculptures or intricate designs, adding visual interest to architectural structures.Atrium
: An atrium is an open courtyard or central space found in ancient Roman houses and early Christian churches. It often features surrounding colonnades and served as a gathering place.Axially-planned church
: An axially-planned church is an architectural design where the floor plan is organized along an axis, typically with one main entrance leading to an altar at the opposite end. This layout creates a clear visual path and emphasizes linear progression within the space.Baroque
: The Baroque period refers to a style of art and architecture that emerged in Europe during the 17th century. It is characterized by grandeur, drama, and emotional intensity.Basilica
: A basilica is a large, rectangular building with a central nave and side aisles, often used as a public meeting place or for religious worship.Byzantine
: Byzantine refers to the artistic style that developed in the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantium) after the fall of Rome. It is known for its religious subject matter, rich colors, and intricate details.Centrally-planned church
: A centrally-planned church is a type of architectural design where the floor plan is symmetrical around a central point, often with a circular or polygonal shape. This layout allows for equal emphasis on all sides and creates a sense of unity within the space.Chasing
: Chasing refers to the process of ornamenting metal objects by indenting or pushing out areas using specialized tools. It creates decorative patterns and textures on metal surfaces.Chiaroscuro technique
: The chiaroscuro technique is a method of using strong contrasts between light and dark areas in an artwork to create depth and volume. It adds drama and emphasizes certain elements within the composition.Choirs (architecture)
: In architecture, choirs refer to the area of a church or cathedral where the choir and clergy are seated during religious services. It is typically located between the nave and the sanctuary.Cloisonné
: Cloisonné is an ancient technique for decorating metal objects with colored glass or enamel. Thin strips of metal (called cloisons) are soldered onto a metal surface to create compartments, which are then filled with the colored materials.Coffered Ceilings
: Coffered ceilings are decorative ceilings that are divided into a grid of recessed panels, often with intricate designs or patterns. They were commonly used in ancient Roman and Renaissance architecture.Engraving printmaking
: Engraving printmaking is a technique where an image is incised onto a metal plate, usually copper, using a sharp tool called a burin. Ink is then applied to the plate and wiped off the surface, leaving ink only in the incised lines. The plate is pressed onto paper to create a printed image.Flying Buttresses
: Flying buttresses are exterior supports used in Gothic architecture to distribute weight from tall walls or vaults to piers outside the building. They consist of an inclined strut (the buttress) connected to a vertical pier by an arch or half-arch (the flying part).Frescoes
: Frescoes are paintings created on wet plaster walls or ceilings. The pigments used in frescoes bind with the wet plaster as it dries, resulting in a durable artwork that becomes an integral part of the wall or ceiling surface.Gothic
: Gothic refers to the architectural style that emerged in Europe during the High Middle Ages (12th to 16th century). It is characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses, allowing for taller and more elaborate structures.Half-Uncial script
: Half-Uncial script is a style of writing that developed in the early medieval period, characterized by rounded and simplified letterforms. It was used primarily for religious texts and manuscripts.Horror Vacui
: Horror vacui refers to the fear or dislike of empty spaces in art, resulting in filling every available space with intricate details, patterns, or decoration. It is often associated with art styles that prioritize visual complexity and abundance.Illuminated Manuscript
: An illuminated manuscript refers to a handwritten book that has been decorated with intricate illustrations, borders, and initials using bright colors and gold leaf.Jambs
: Jambs are the vertical sides of a doorway or window frame. They often serve as a decorative element and can feature sculptures or carvings.Keystone
: The keystone is the central wedge-shaped stone at the topmost part of an archway. It is crucial for maintaining the stability and integrity of the arch, as it locks all the other stones in place.Kufic calligraphy
: Kufic calligraphy is an early form of Arabic script characterized by its angular shapes and lack of diacritical marks. It was commonly used in Islamic art and architecture for decorative inscriptions.Late Antique
: Late Antique refers to the period of art and culture that emerged in the late Roman Empire, from the 3rd to the 7th century CE. It is characterized by a fusion of classical Roman elements with new influences from Christianity and other cultures.Linear Perspective
: Linear perspective is a technique used in painting to create the illusion of depth on a flat surface. It involves using converging lines that meet at a vanishing point, giving the artwork a sense of spatial accuracy.Mannerism
: Mannerism is an artistic style that emerged in the late Renaissance period, characterized by exaggerated poses, elongated figures, and complex compositions. It often deviated from the natural proportions and balance of the human form.Medieval Art
: Medieval art refers to the artistic styles and techniques that were prevalent in Europe during the Middle Ages, from the 5th to the 15th century. It encompasses various forms of visual arts such as architecture, sculpture, painting, and manuscript illumination.Mosaics
: Mosaics are artworks made by arranging small pieces of colored glass, stone, or other materials into patterns or images. They were commonly used in ancient times as decorative elements on floors and walls.Narthex
: The narthex is an entrance hall or porch located at the western end of some churches. It serves as a transitional space between outside and inside.Nave
: The nave is the central part of a church, extending from the entrance to the altar. It is where the congregation gathers for worship.New Spain
: New Spain refers to the Spanish colonial territories in North and Central America during the 16th to 19th centuries. It encompassed areas such as present-day Mexico, parts of the United States, and Central America.Pendentives
: Pendentives are curved triangular structures that support a dome by transitioning from the round base to the square shape of the building below it. They allow for the smooth transition between different shapes and provide structural stability.Rib Vaults
: Rib vaults are a type of architectural structure used in Gothic cathedrals, characterized by the intersection of diagonal ribs that create a web-like pattern. They provide structural support and allow for the distribution of weight more efficiently.Romanesque
: Romanesque refers to an architectural style prevalent in Europe from the 11th to the 12th century. It is characterized by thick walls, rounded arches, and small windows, often found in churches and castles.Sfumato technique
: The sfumato technique is a painting technique where colors and tones are blended together to create a soft, hazy effect. It is often used to create a sense of depth and atmosphere in artworks.Spolia
: Spolia refers to the reuse of existing architectural elements or decorative features in new buildings. It involves taking materials from older structures and incorporating them into newer constructions.Squinches
: Squinches are architectural elements used to transition between square walls and circular domes or arches. They are typically triangular in shape and provide structural support while creating a smooth transition.Transept
: A transept refers to an area that intersects with and crosses over the main axis (nave) of a basilica, forming the shape of a cross.Tympanum
: The tympanum is the semi-circular or triangular space above a doorway, often decorated with sculptures or reliefs. It serves as a focal point and tells a story or conveys symbolic meaning.Vellum
: Vellum is a type of parchment made from animal skin (usually calf or sheep) that has been specially prepared for writing or painting. It was widely used as a writing surface before paper became more common.Voussoirs
: Voussoirs are wedge-shaped stones that make up an arch or vault. They are carefully arranged to create a curved structure that distributes weight evenly.© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
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