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975
Medieval II: Ende -Illustration from The Beatus Apocalypse of Gerona, 975
This piece of work uses color, value, and shape significantly for this time period. The shape of the red sun is balanced and not misshapen. There is even a use of contrast against the branches and the sun. Visually it is interesting.
At the time, it was not acceptable for a woman to be educated or be a part of the arts. While there is a male artist at the forefront, a female artist by the name Ende (Chadwick, 20212). This is significant for the time. -
1142
Middle Ages I Hildegard of Bingen
1142-52
The Scivias is known for its use of line and color to depict supernatural contemplation (Chadwick, 2012). I especially found the detailed macabre aspects of this painting unique for the time period.
Her pieces help to “disrupt [the] masculine control of over knowledge by separating the body of a woman from thought’ (Chadwick, 2012). -
Renaissance: Marriage Portrait of a Bolognese Noblewoman (Livia de’ Medici Bandini) by Lavinia Fontana
The painting uses oil on canvas. Its focus is on the woman and her elegance. Her companion is also a soft focal point in addition to her figure. She looks beautiful and erudite. The colors of her dress, red and gold, symbolize her nobility.
Lavinia is well known for her portraits and religious paintings. As most women were not able to study the human body and its shape. Her mastery of this feature is astounding -
The 17th Century: Artemisia Gentileschi: Self-Portrait as Saint Catherine of Alexandria
Visual components include bold use of dark colors. Expression of woman is fierce and holds audience attention. The form is accurate. There is a clear focal point. Uses historical setting as was common for this period.
This artwork depicts the feelings of female rage so impeccably. To study women in art history is to study this image. After Artemisia's rape, she found drive to paint out her feelings and experience. Many women can understand the feelings expressed. -
The 17th Century: Giovanna Garzoni Still Life with Bowl of Citrons
The painting includes detailed use of watercolors and depicts existential thoughts about life, growth, decay, and death.
The artist has made sure to include the changing texture in the fruit, the table, the twigs, and even the flowers. Form has been used to detail the change from plump fruit to its dying form in the bowl. -
Renaissance II: Portrait of Anna Maria Ranuzzi as Charity by Elisabetta Sorani 1665
Elisabetta lived a short life, passing at around twenty-seven years of age. Her entire life was spent in Bologna, and she was the daughter of a painter. Her catalogue includes 150 paintings. Her work is often compared to another influential artist, Renni.
The individuals in the painting all carry a glow to their skin. There are spots of warmer tones on the hands, knees, elbows, cheeks of the family. The use of value to highlight details in this painting is interesting and well developed.