Late Baroque architecture

Late Baroque architecture is characterized by fluidity and drama accented by a sense of movement. This was a reaction to the tumultuous period of the sixteenth century that saw powerful people trying to convey strength, wealth and prominence through art and architecture.

The style was popular in Italy, but it spread throughout Western Europe during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Some of the greatest buildings of this era were created by Italian architects like Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Carlo Maderno and Francesco Borromini.

Characteristics

The late Baroque was an architectural style that originated in Italy and later spread across Europe to Germany, Scandinavia, and parts of colonial South America. It is a theatrical style of architecture that showcases wealth and power, and it was meant to inspire awe in viewers.

Compared to Renaissance architecture, which was based on control and carefully balanced proportions, the Baroque was characterized by dynamic designs and complex architectural plan forms. Its intention was to heighten feelings of motion and sensuality, often based on the oval; its characteristic elements include grandeur, drama and contrast (especially lighting), curvaceousness, an often dizzying array of rich surface treatments and twisting elements, and an unabashed use of gilding and sculptural decoration.

The style is also characterized by an obsession with illusion and a desire to trick the viewer’s eye. Architects used mirrors, quadratura, overhead sculpture, and other effects to give the impression of depth to buildings and interior spaces.

Origins

The origins of Late Baroque architecture are primarily found in Italy, where it developed around the sixteenth century. It was influenced by both Renaissance and Roman architecture and the work of Michelangelo, who designed the facades of several important late-Roman churches, including St. Peter’s Basilica.

The Baroque style also emerged in Europe during the Counter-Reformation period, when the Catholic Church was attempting to reassert its influence against the Protestant Reformation. By creating a sense of grandeur and awe in church architecture, the Church was able to draw people in and turn their attention away from Protestantism.

This is because Baroque architecture appealed to the emotions and sensorial experiences of patrons and parishioners, allowing them to experience a sense of ecstasy and transcendence. It was also a way for the Church to reclaim lost souls and restore faith in its followers.

Influence

The influence of Late Baroque architecture can be seen throughout Europe. The style is characterized by a dramatic theatricality that was inspired by the Catholic Church.

The style is a blend of classical and Renaissance elements. It influenced many religious buildings as well, especially churches.

It also influenced the design of private houses. The most notable example of this is Palazzo Carignano by Guarini, which was a pace-setter for structural audacity in the 17th century.

The Italian Baroque spread throughout Europe, influencing the designs of palaces and churches in France, Portugal, Austria, Spain, and Bavaria. It was later adapted to the American colonies of Spain, forming an important part of the colonial architecture that was developed in these countries.

Examples

Baroque architecture originated in Italy during the 17th century and grew in popularity across Europe. It combines classical building techniques with a theatrical flair, allowing buildings to be more opulent and eye-catching.

The Catholic Church used this style of architecture to reassert its power across Europe as Protestantism gained strength. Architects were commissioned to create churches that would awe people and show the beauty of Christianity.

These churches were designed to make people feel like they were in heaven. The architects also made use of many contrasting elements to create a sense of movement.

In addition, the architects made use of a technique known as trompe l'oeil to give the paintings and sculptures in these structures a sense of three-dimensionality. This was a way for the artists and architects to cut costs while still creating beautiful designs.

Examples of Late Baroque architecture include the Versailles Palace in France and Hampton Court Palace in England. These buildings feature double-sloped mansard roofs and large-scale ornamentation on the interior and exterior.