Why is the 17th century a turning point in art history?

The 17th century marks a turning point due to the rise of the Baroque style, which broke from Renaissance classicism with its emphasis on drama and emotion. Simultaneously, the Dutch Golden Age saw the development of realism and genre painting, shifting the focus to everyday life and detailed observation.

Which artists define 17th-century art?

Several artists define this period, including Rembrandt van Rijn, known for his dramatic portraits and biblical scenes, and Johannes Vermeer, celebrated for his intimate genre paintings. You can view works by both artists at the National Gallery in London.

What's a lesser-known 17th-century artist worth discovering?

Judith Leyster was a Dutch Golden Age painter who excelled in genre scenes and portraits. Her painting 'Self-Portrait' showcases her skill and confidence as an artist, challenging the male-dominated art world of the time.

How did the 17th century end?

The 17th century concluded with the Baroque style still dominant, but with the seeds of the Rococo movement beginning to sprout, particularly in France. The Ancien Régime, spanning from 1620 to 1775, saw French art flourish, setting the stage for new artistic directions in the following century.

The Repentant Magdalene by Guido Cagnacci

Moses presenting the tablets of the law by Philippe de Champaigne

Sculpted cartouche addorned with flowers around a grisaille bust of the Virgin Mary by Erasmus Quellinus II

Still Life with Herring, Bread, and Glass of Beer by Adriaen Coorte

Still life with berries, medlars and grapes by Adriaen Coorte

A View on a High Road by Meindert Hobbema

A Farm in the Sunlight by Meindert Hobbema

Interior of a Barn by Adriaen Van Ostade

David with the Head of Goliath by Guido Cagnacci

River view at sunrise by Aert van der Neer

17th Century

76 artists · The Baroque era and Dutch Golden Age

The 17th century saw the rise of the Baroque style, characterised by drama, grandeur, and elaborate ornamentation. This period also witnessed the Dutch Golden Age, a time of exceptional artistic production in the Netherlands. Realism gained prominence, with artists focusing on detailed depictions of everyday life, portraits, and landscapes. The century saw significant developments in technique and subject matter, influencing artistic movements for centuries to come.

Key Movements

Art movements active during the 17th century.

Key Ideas

The Baroque Style

Baroque art is known for its dramatic use of light and shadow, emotional intensity, and ornate details. It aimed to evoke a sense of awe and wonder in the viewer, often employed in religious and palatial settings.
Dutch Realism

In contrast to the Baroque's grandeur, Dutch Realism focused on the everyday lives of ordinary people. Artists depicted scenes of daily life, portraits, and landscapes with meticulous detail and accuracy.
Still Life Painting

Still life emerged as a popular genre, particularly in Dutch art. These paintings often featured arrangements of objects, such as flowers, food, and household items, rendered with remarkable realism.
The Catholic Reformation

The Catholic Reformation influenced Baroque art, with many works commissioned to promote Catholic teachings and inspire religious fervour. These artworks often featured dramatic scenes and emotional portrayals of saints and biblical figures.

Key Artists

Johannes Vermeer

1632–1675 · Dutch

Canaletto

1697–1758 · Italian

William Hogarth

1697–1764 · British

Claude Lorrain

1600–1682 · Duchy of Lorraine

Rembrandt van Rijn

1606–1669 · Dutch

Maria Sibylla Merian

1647–1717 · Dutch

Jan Steen

1626–1679 · Dutch

Judith Leyster

1609–1660 · Dutch

All 17th Century Artists

76 artists.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the 17th century a turning point in art history?
The 17th century marks a turning point due to the rise of the Baroque style, which broke from Renaissance classicism with its emphasis on drama and emotion. Simultaneously, the Dutch Golden Age saw the development of realism and genre painting, shifting the focus to everyday life and detailed observation.
Which artists define 17th-century art?
Several artists define this period, including Rembrandt van Rijn, known for his dramatic portraits and biblical scenes, and Johannes Vermeer, celebrated for his intimate genre paintings. You can view works by both artists at the National Gallery in London.
What's a lesser-known 17th-century artist worth discovering?
Judith Leyster was a Dutch Golden Age painter who excelled in genre scenes and portraits. Her painting 'Self-Portrait' showcases her skill and confidence as an artist, challenging the male-dominated art world of the time.
How did the 17th century end?
The 17th century concluded with the Baroque style still dominant, but with the seeds of the Rococo movement beginning to sprout, particularly in France. The Ancien Régime, spanning from 1620 to 1775, saw French art flourish, setting the stage for new artistic directions in the following century.

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17th Century

Key Movements

Key Ideas

The Baroque Style

Dutch Realism

Still Life Painting

The Catholic Reformation