In the 17th century, a new art style captivated Europe.
Known as theBaroque period, this era emphasized lavishness and drama.
And while there were numerous artists who made up thiscultural movement, some stand out from the rest.
Here, we will take a look atfamous Baroque artistswho left their mark on the style.
Similarly, Gian Lorenzo Bernini singlehandedly translated Baroque ideals into innovative and dynamic sculptures rooted in strong emotions.
Scroll down to learn about 10 famous Baroque artists who pioneered the style.
Annibale Carracci, “Self-Portrait,” c. 1580 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)
Famous works of art:Domine, quo vadis?
(Photo: Public Domain, viaWikimedia Commons.)
His distinct style featured dramatically-lit paintings with strong contrast and oftentimes illuminated by candlelight.
Ottavio Leoni, “Portrait of Caravaggio,” c. 1621 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)
He conveyed drama in his paintings by organizing numerous figures in active poses inside a well-defined space.
As a result, many of his works possess a stage-like appearance.
As for the subject matter, he gravitated toward classical and mythological scenes.
“Portrait of the Artist,” oil on panel, 1623. (Photo: Public Domain, viaWikimedia Commons.)
Originally from Naples, he was regarded as a child prodigy.
His fatheraManneristsculptorhelped develop his talents and the pair worked together on several early commissions.
This relationship helped fund some of Bernini’s most recognizable sculptural works.
Georges de La Tour, “Joseph the Carpenter,” c. 1640 (Photo: The Louvre, Public domain)
In addition to mastering marble, he was also an accomplished painter and successful architect.
During this era, artists like Rembrandt andVermeerfound inspiration inNorthern Renaissancepainting techniques.
Caravaggio, Bernini, and Velazquez are three famous Baroque artists.
“Self-portrait as a Female Martyr,” ca. 1615 (Photo:Wikimedia CommonsPublic Domain)
What defines Baroque art?
Who is the greatest Baroque sculptor?
Nicholas Poussin, “Self-Portrait,” 1650 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)
Gian Lorenzo Bernini, “Self-Portrait,” c. 1635 (Photo: Uffizi viaWikimedia Commons, Public domain)
Francisco de Zurbarán, Detail of a possible self-portrait in “Saint Luke as a Painter Before Christ on the Cross,” 1635–1640 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)
Diego Velázquez, “Self-Portrait,” c. 1640 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)
Rembrandt, “Self-Portrait at the Age of 34,” 1640 (Photo:National GalleryviaWikimedia Commons, Public domain)