baroque etymology

Etymology

The term "baroque" originates from the Portuguese word "barroco," which means "an irregularly shaped pearl."

Meaning and Origin

In the 17th and 18th centuries, the term "baroque" was commonly used to describe certain types of art and architecture that were characterized by:

• Exaggerated ornamentation and decoration
• Intricate and dynamic forms
• A sense of theatricality and drama
• A fusion of different artistic styles and techniques

The exact origin of the term remains uncertain, but it is believed to have been coined in the early 18th century by critics who saw the style as overly ornate and distorted.

Characteristics of Baroque Art and Architecture

Baroque art and architecture is characterized by:

• Opulence: Rich colors, lavish materials, and elaborate details
• Dynamicism: Movement, energy, and asymmetry
• Contrast: Contrasting light and shadow, textures, and colors
• Curvilinear Forms: Spiral columns, ovals, and undulating lines
• Theatrical Effects: The use of light, perspective, and illusion to create a sense of grandeur and drama

Examples of Baroque Art and Architecture

Notable examples of Baroque art and architecture include:

• Painting: Caravaggio's "The Calling of St. Matthew," Rubens's "The Descent from the Cross"
• Sculpture: Bernini's "Ecstasy of St. Teresa," Algardi's "Sleeping Hermaphrodite"
• Architecture: Versailles Palace, St. Peter's Basilica, Churrigueresque churches in Mexico

baroque relate terms

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  Etymology The word rococo is derived from the French term rocaille which refers to i

• baroque

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  Etymology Latin verruca meaning wart From Proto Indo European root wers or wer

• idiom

  Etymology The word idiom comes from the Greek word idiōma meaning peculiar express

• period

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• anecdote

  Etymology French anecdote unpublished or private story Late Latin anekdotos unpubli

• concept

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• hierarchy

• tribulation

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• patience

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• entrepreneur

  Etymology The word entrepreneur comes from the French word entreprendre which means

• entertain

  Etymology Derivatives of the word entertain include Old French entartenir to hol