Paul's Post 2/29 Baroque

An Assembly of the Gods-Antonio Verrio, Baroque Blog Assignment

I chose Antonio Verrio's "An Assembly of the Gods" to represent the Baroque era as this work is characterized by its dramatic compositions and emotional intensity. The painting features a gathering of gods and mythological figures, a theme that is commonly seen in other works from the Baroque era (ArtLand, 2018). The use of chiaroscuro in this work is evident which is also a prominent Baroque technique that creates a play of light and shadow to enhance its dramatic effect, adding depth and dimension to the composition. The dynamic arrangement of figures in elaborate poses contributes to the sense of movement and energy, which also makes this a captivating piece. From top to bottom, this work is a visual extravaganza that captivates with its intensity and complexity. An Assembly of the Gods was originally commissioned by King Charles II of England and it serves as a celebration of political stability within England and as a representation of the English monarchy being ordained by God (Hovey, 2018). 

Having been commissioned by Charles II, Verrio's An Assembly of the Gods is intricately linked to the influence of royalty. The commission by Charles II reflects the patronage system that flourished under monarchs, where artists were employed to create works that celebrated the grandeur and authority of their respective rulers. The painting serves as a visual expression of the divine right of kings, aligning with the Baroque era's emphasis on the power and prestige of royalty (Hovey, 2018). The painting was commissioned for the ceiling of the Banqueting House in Whitehall Palace. This was primarily done to celebrate the restoration of the monarchy after a period of political upheaval. The painting becomes not only a visual spectacle but also a symbol of royal power and resilience. 

References

Artland. “Baroque: Art, Definition & Style of an Era.” Artland Magazine, 8 Dec. 2021, magazine.artland.com/baroque-art-definition-style/#:~:text=The%20term%20Baroque%2C%20derived%20from.

‌Brock, Hovey. “An Assembly of Gods.” The Brooklyn Rail, 5 Mar. 2018,      brooklynrail.org/2018/03/artseen/AN-ASSEMBLY-OF-GODS#:~:text=In%20sum%2C%20the%20painting%20reads. Accessed 1 Mar. 2024.