History painting is a painting genre that is defined by its subject matter rather than its creative approach. History paintings often represent a particular and static topic, as opposed to a specific and static subject, as in a portrait. The name is derived from the Latin and Italian words historia, which mean “story” or “narrative,” … Read more
Throughout history, artists have focused on the incredible beauty of the female figure. Many of the world’s greatest painters were largely enthralled in creating works that captured women in their most beautiful state. Many of the paintings that many art historians and critics consider to be among the best works of all time are those … Read more
Some of the most notable paintings ever created have been done around the subject of that which humans consider to be darkness. This element of darkness is representative of evil as this metaphor seems to translate throughout any culture and language barrier in existence. Many of the most celebrated painters throughout history have dabbled in … Read more
Red is arguably one of the most controversial colors in the entire spectrum. It was one of the first colors that humans managed to perfect the method of reproducing in different hues using red ochre material. The color has been the symbol of powerful kings and has even been vilified during times like the Protestant … Read more
Many of the most famous paintings in the world were done in stark, black and white medium. Artists throughout history have used black and white paintings to emphasize various contrasting ideals or realities from our world. Many of these paintings emphasize the contrast of black and white paintings through the lens of white often representing … Read more
The color blue is known universally as one which exhibits a sense of calming and relaxation. It is associated with the stillness of the night, as well as the rhythmic, calming character of the ocean and water itself. Throughout history, various artists have created iconic works that heavily feature the color blue. Many of these … Read more
One of the most eye-catching aspects of any masterful painting is the colors used by the artist. Throughout history, there have been numerous styles of painting and various art movements that have focused on colors in differing lights, intensities, and contrasts, but the ability to captivate the viewer with an array of colors is a … Read more
One of the most iconic painting niches in the world is that of ship paintings. For centuries, the world’s seas were dominated by various nations who sent trading vessels and warships out into the blue horizon. Over many years, these ships became the lifeblood of the economies of certain countries like Portugal and Great Britain, … Read more
The Rococo movement is one that came about due to shifting social climate in France during the early 18th century after the death of King Louis XIV in 1715. Many of the families and members of the ruling class and social elites moved away from the royal palace in Versailles after the king’s death and … Read more
The medieval period was one that featured the rise of small kingdoms across much of Europe, especially in areas that were once ruled by the Roman Empire. The fall of Rome’s might marked the beginning of the medieval era, which lasted until roughly 1500 A.D. During this one thousand-year period, artwork throughout the areas surrounding … Read more