Medieval vs Renaissance
Medieval and Renaissance are two distinct periods in world history, with noticeable differences in art, music, fashion, architecture, and more. The most vibrant and distinguishing feature of these periods is art. This article will focus on the differences between medieval and renaissance art. The colors associated with the artworks of the medieval period are believed to be dull compared to the colors used by Renaissance artists. Medieval period artists focused more on religious aspects of art, while Renaissance period artists focused more on realistic aspects of life. There are other differences between the two art styles, which we will discuss in this article.
Key Takeaways
- Medieval art was more focused on religious aspects, while Renaissance art focused on realistic aspects of life.
- Colors in medieval art were dull or dark, while Renaissance artists used bright and rich colors.
- Medieval period was influenced by superstitions and fear of God, while the Renaissance period was characterized by logical thinking and less emphasis on God as a fearsome being.
What is Medieval Art?
The Medieval period of art existed between 476 and 1600 AD, coinciding with the historical medieval period. This period of art was characterized by beliefs and religious faiths, with works that depicted fears and superstitions. This was due to the prevalence of superstitions and fear during the medieval period. The Dark Ages, part of the medieval times, also had a dark effect on art. The colors used by medieval artists were dull or darker, reflecting the atmosphere of fear and religious influence at the time. Some famous medieval painters include Donatello, Giotto, and Filippo Brunelleschi.
What is Renaissance Art?
The Renaissance period of art lasted from the 14th to the 17th century, coinciding with the historical Renaissance period. This period of art was seen as an age of enlightenment and rebirth. The Renaissance period was characterized by hope, with superstitions and unwanted fear diminishing. People began to think more logically and question the teachings of the Church. This shift in thought was reflected in artworks of the time. Renaissance artists used brighter, richer colors in their art pieces. Famous Renaissance painters include Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael.
What is the difference between Medieval and Renaissance?
- Time:
- The Medieval period existed between 476 and 1600 AD.
- The Renaissance period lasted from the 14th to the 17th century, from about 1370 AD until the beginning of modern art.
- Beliefs:
- The Medieval period was characterized by superstitions and fear of God.
- The Renaissance period was characterized by logical thinking and a less fearsome view of God.
- Influence of the Church on Art:
- The Church heavily influenced art during the medieval era.
- As the Church’s influence waned during the Renaissance, artists had more freedom to paint their desired topics.
- Color Selection of Art:
- Medieval art used dull or dark colors.
- Renaissance art used bright colors.
- Art Themes:
- Medieval art focused on themes such as Christianity and superstitions.
- Renaissance art also had religious themes, but explored other topics like human beauty and nature.
- Famous Painters:
- Famous medieval painters include Donatello, Giotto, and Filippo Brunelleschi.
- Famous Renaissance painters include Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael.
The main difference between the two art styles stems from the influence the Church had on society during each period.
