Seventeenth-century Art and Architecture

Encompassing the socio-political, cultural background of the period, this book takes a fresh look at the careers of the Old Masters and many lesser-known artists. Italy is the logical place to begin this geographical tour, not least because it was a magnet for Flemish and French artists, and because Italian artists were prized by the Spanish, French, and English courts. Subsequent chapters focus on Flanders, Spain, France, the Dutch Republic, and England. The increasingly popular secularization of art is reflected in mythological and biblical themes with obvious erotic content. Commissions increasingly originated from upper middle-class patrons seeking portraits, self-portraits, landscapes, genre scenes, and still-lifes. Covering artistic developments across six countries and examining in detail many of the artworks on display, this book demonstrates considerable breadth and depth. Reflecting the latest developments in research, it is written with great clarity, knowledge, and affection, and is a true tribute to its subject.