Haley- She wrote an informative post that helped me to understand this time period better. I like how she mentioned the popular materials that were used, as well as include the history from which the furniture and style were derived.
Lisa- She gave a nice overview of this era while still mentioning key points of this certain style. I thought her examples were different from all the other pictures because they were focused just on the chairs, rather than the interiors. It gave a unique perspective and allowed for a better understanding of the furniture.
Sunday, April 17, 2016
Thursday, April 14, 2016
English Period: Late Renaissance-Neoclassic
The Late Renaissance Neoclassic period began in 1750 and ended in 1830. There was a revival of interest in arts of Greece and Rome. The Chiswick House is a perfect example of a Neoclassical home. Designed by Richard Boyle with William Kent, this house exhibits a classic Palladian style. The Chiswick House was also the birthplace of the English Landscape Movement.
robert Adams was born into a Scottish Family and took the revival of classic design very seriously. He was not only an architect, but an interior designer and furniture designer. His designs were delicate and finely detailed. Adams worked with a complete integration of all elements including furniture, light fixtures, floor coverings, silver, pottery, and metal work. 1756-1770 was one of his bold, masculine phases. 1770-1792 was a more delicate and feminine design style influenced by French designers at the end of Louis XVI. Some of the architectural elements found in Adams design are columns, domes, entablatures, and panels ornamented with classical motifs. The walls were classical architectural devices and the ceilings were delicate octagons with fans and ellipses. Some of them even featured Roman stucco decoration. Other characteristics he incorporated were making his designs symmetrical, painting surfaces, making it extremely formal, and using satinwood. Some of the colors he used were pale green or cream, with panels of purple or faded rose. The floors were polished oak and fireplaces were not viewed as the focal point and were made smaller. Some of the most important pieces included mirrors often made of metal then painted to match the frame.
George Hepplewhite brought the Neoclassic style to the masses and still continues to be used today. Hepplewhite is mostly known for popularizing satinwood. Although the construction of his pieces were weak, they were widely recognized. He never used glass in his doors and used ribbons, vases, fluting, and urns in his decor. The chairs usually had backs shaped like ovals, shields, or were heart shaped. Some of the chairs had upholstered backs and ended in a spade foot.
Thomas Sheraton brought a large influx of French furniture in the last decade of the 18th century. The styles that he introduced were identical in style to Louis XVI. Sheraton was primarily a designer but wrote The Cabinet-Maker and Upholsters' Drawing Book. When Sheraton was designing, he primarily used satinwood or mahogany. The chair legs that he used were similar to Hepplewhite's and the backs were square. His style can be described as elegant, crisp and light. His furniture did not contain any complicated curves. The ornament was restricted to inlay, marquetry, or painted designs. Sheraton created the kidney-shaped pedestal desk and his folding furniture was made to be multipurpose. Silk, satin, toile, brocade, chintz, and damask were his main fabrics found in his work.
Past
Present
robert Adams was born into a Scottish Family and took the revival of classic design very seriously. He was not only an architect, but an interior designer and furniture designer. His designs were delicate and finely detailed. Adams worked with a complete integration of all elements including furniture, light fixtures, floor coverings, silver, pottery, and metal work. 1756-1770 was one of his bold, masculine phases. 1770-1792 was a more delicate and feminine design style influenced by French designers at the end of Louis XVI. Some of the architectural elements found in Adams design are columns, domes, entablatures, and panels ornamented with classical motifs. The walls were classical architectural devices and the ceilings were delicate octagons with fans and ellipses. Some of them even featured Roman stucco decoration. Other characteristics he incorporated were making his designs symmetrical, painting surfaces, making it extremely formal, and using satinwood. Some of the colors he used were pale green or cream, with panels of purple or faded rose. The floors were polished oak and fireplaces were not viewed as the focal point and were made smaller. Some of the most important pieces included mirrors often made of metal then painted to match the frame.
George Hepplewhite brought the Neoclassic style to the masses and still continues to be used today. Hepplewhite is mostly known for popularizing satinwood. Although the construction of his pieces were weak, they were widely recognized. He never used glass in his doors and used ribbons, vases, fluting, and urns in his decor. The chairs usually had backs shaped like ovals, shields, or were heart shaped. Some of the chairs had upholstered backs and ended in a spade foot.
Thomas Sheraton brought a large influx of French furniture in the last decade of the 18th century. The styles that he introduced were identical in style to Louis XVI. Sheraton was primarily a designer but wrote The Cabinet-Maker and Upholsters' Drawing Book. When Sheraton was designing, he primarily used satinwood or mahogany. The chair legs that he used were similar to Hepplewhite's and the backs were square. His style can be described as elegant, crisp and light. His furniture did not contain any complicated curves. The ornament was restricted to inlay, marquetry, or painted designs. Sheraton created the kidney-shaped pedestal desk and his folding furniture was made to be multipurpose. Silk, satin, toile, brocade, chintz, and damask were his main fabrics found in his work.
Past
Present
Extra Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rCDB5t28PrQ
Sunday, April 10, 2016
Peer Reviews
Erin- I like how she focused her blog around Inigo Jones and some of his work. I also like how she mentioned key details that characterized his design style and gave pictures that showed off these elements.
Angie- Her blog was about the Neoclassical style and its attributes. She did a great job at classifying this style and mentioned all the key points that make up this type of design. Her post was very descriptive and helped me notice more of the details found within this style.
Angie- Her blog was about the Neoclassical style and its attributes. She did a great job at classifying this style and mentioned all the key points that make up this type of design. Her post was very descriptive and helped me notice more of the details found within this style.
Wednesday, April 6, 2016
The English Period
The English Period: Early Renaissance went from 1550-1660. This was a time when design periods were named after the rulers and oak became a popular design element. Other features in the early renaissance was the Tudor style and important people included Henry VII, Edward VI, Mary, Elizabeth I, James I and Charles I. From 1660-1750 was the Middle Renaissance and this was the age of restoration. Oak had become a thing of the past, and was replaced with walnut. Queen Anne style was becoming more popular as well as Early Georgian. The Late Renaissance is categorize from 1750-1830. Middle Georgian and Late Georgian were seen during this time. In addition, walnut had been replaced with mahogany. During this time, one can also see Regency and Neoclassical style emerging.
English architecture was the last to fall to the Renaissance. The first indication of a change in style is in ornamentation and then form. The forms developed themselves and became isolated from the continent. Climate and materials were also big factors in the what influenced English architecture. The climate affected the design style which is why the windows are larger in England, this is to allow for more light and warmth in the space. Some of the materials used during this era were timber in their roofs because of the large oak forests in England. Because of their proximity to the sea, the people from this time had excellent woodworking skills and built many boats.
One of the rising styles was the Tudor style. Due to the conflict between Henry VIII and the Pope in Rome the King became the head of the church, there was an increased number of houses and land was given to wealthy merchants and traders. The Tudor period official marks the start of the Renaissance. Tudor is associated with timber framed construction and its focus was on churches, official buildings, and furnishing programs. There were also visible signs of luxury and comfort included in the fireplaces. The furniture had a hint of Gothic elements and included box-like chairs, chests, beds, and trestle tables.
Elizabeth I lived from 1558-1603 and he Elizabethan Period was a period of great wealth. Many manor and country houses were built, as well as the rise of Shakespeare plays, and Inigo Jones. Jones introduced Renaissance architecture to England and his work relies mostly on Italian Renaissance architect, Palladio. Gateways, long drives, formal gardens and parks, houses, and other structures were built in the shapes of "H" "E" or "C".
This interiors of this time had walls adorned with armor and trophies, ornamental and elaborate, plaster ceilings, and tended to show off wealth. Interiors were also very masculine and incorporated oriental rugs, embroidered silk, and the fireplace served as the focal point.
Past
Present
Extra Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3u_VinejO8
Sunday, April 3, 2016
Peer Reviews
Savannah- She did a great job at discussing the background of this period in regards to royalty. I also like how she specifically mentioned the Hall of Mirrors and all of its attributes. Her pictures were also vivid and charming.
Holli- Her post was very thorough and she covered a great amount of information. She did a nice job at explaining the details of the Palais de Versaille as well as the Vaux-leVictomte. Her pictures were also great examples and helped me to visualize this time period's design styles a bit better.
Holli- Her post was very thorough and she covered a great amount of information. She did a nice job at explaining the details of the Palais de Versaille as well as the Vaux-leVictomte. Her pictures were also great examples and helped me to visualize this time period's design styles a bit better.
Saturday, April 2, 2016
French Period: Baroque Style
The Baroque style began with the death of Louis XIII in 1643, making Louis XIV the next proclaimed king at 5 years old. He created a national style of art as well as establish a school for 60 children under his protection. These children all went on to become masters of their craft.
Vaux-le-Vicomte was one of the extravagant pieces of architecture during this time. It included 105 lavish rooms, 170 acres of gardens designed by Andre Le Notre, Persian carpets, crystal chandeliers, gold clocks, silver vases, as well as entertained up to 6,000 guests. Louis Le Vau was the architect for this structure, Charles LeBrun was the painter and decorator for the interiors, and Puget as the sculptor.
Another marvelous structure is the Palais de Versailles. It was the original hunting lodge for Louis XIII. It is 12 miles southwest of Paris and housed 10,000 people. Le Vau designed the central block around the original Louis XIII building. One of the famous rooms in the Palais de Versailles is the Hall of Mirrors. It contains the classical orders as well as exhibits classical architecture and decoration. The hall also contains rectangular shapes, balanced windows with mirrors, and symmetrical design. The rest of the interior showed off a royal monogrammed "L" and was always doubled. The color emphasized the architecture and the brighter colors were seen in paintings, tapestries, and rugs. The paneling was usually white, off white, or gray with moldings. The furniture was also pushed up against the walls.
The furniture and interiors were decorated with materials from China and Japan. Some of these items included porcelain figures, vases, silk, screens, and lacquer work. Some of the furniture introduced during this time was the Louis XIV Chair. It had a high back, sense of greatness, and a wide seat for wide dresses. The Bergere chair was also introduced during this period. It is an enclosed, upholstered, French armchair with an upholstered back and armrests on upholstered frames.
Past
Present
Extra Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-xZlpO9VYk
Vaux-le-Vicomte was one of the extravagant pieces of architecture during this time. It included 105 lavish rooms, 170 acres of gardens designed by Andre Le Notre, Persian carpets, crystal chandeliers, gold clocks, silver vases, as well as entertained up to 6,000 guests. Louis Le Vau was the architect for this structure, Charles LeBrun was the painter and decorator for the interiors, and Puget as the sculptor.
Another marvelous structure is the Palais de Versailles. It was the original hunting lodge for Louis XIII. It is 12 miles southwest of Paris and housed 10,000 people. Le Vau designed the central block around the original Louis XIII building. One of the famous rooms in the Palais de Versailles is the Hall of Mirrors. It contains the classical orders as well as exhibits classical architecture and decoration. The hall also contains rectangular shapes, balanced windows with mirrors, and symmetrical design. The rest of the interior showed off a royal monogrammed "L" and was always doubled. The color emphasized the architecture and the brighter colors were seen in paintings, tapestries, and rugs. The paneling was usually white, off white, or gray with moldings. The furniture was also pushed up against the walls.
The furniture and interiors were decorated with materials from China and Japan. Some of these items included porcelain figures, vases, silk, screens, and lacquer work. Some of the furniture introduced during this time was the Louis XIV Chair. It had a high back, sense of greatness, and a wide seat for wide dresses. The Bergere chair was also introduced during this period. It is an enclosed, upholstered, French armchair with an upholstered back and armrests on upholstered frames.
Past
Present
Extra Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-xZlpO9VYk
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Peer Reviews
Anna- I like how she kept her post short and to the point. She touched upon a little of everything that made up the French Period. She also did a good job at mentioning the chateaux and their features. Her pictures of the modern application were also excellent and really showed off this style.
Emma- I like how she mentioned some of the historical background of this period and what influenced the birth of the French style. She did a great job of describing the chateaux as well as the historical aspects of the structures. The pictures in her post were also stunning.
Emma- I like how she mentioned some of the historical background of this period and what influenced the birth of the French style. She did a great job of describing the chateaux as well as the historical aspects of the structures. The pictures in her post were also stunning.
Saturday, March 26, 2016
French Renaissance
The French Renaissance was a time of royal, wealthy, and powerful designs. This period was highly influenced by the rulers. Decorators had the job of bringing these concepts to life. They had to design a luxurious room while keeping the overall feel consistent and harmonious. The decorator also supervised the artisans to produce the highest quality design.
The French Period was composed of many subdivisions including :
Early Renaissance (1484-1547)
Middle Renaissance (1547-1589)
Late Renaissance (1589-1643)
Baroque Style (1643-1700)
Regency Style (1700-1730)
Rococo Style (1730-1760)
Neoclassical Style (1760-1789)
Revolution and Directoire (1789-1804)
Empire (1804-1820)
Restoration Style (1830-1879)
Francois I was the most famous patron of the arts. He ruled during a transitional style and many Gothic forms with Italian Renaissance ornaments were incorporated. During this time the Chateau de Chambord, Chateau de Fontainebleau, and Chateau de Blois were built, as well as the renovations of the Louvre to Renaissance style. Because the main focus was on royalty, there was no need for new religious structure, but rather palaces and chateaux were built.
Francois I began the construction of Chateau Chambord which has 444 rooms, 84 staircases, 365 chimneys and is 14,300 acres of forest, lakes and grassland. This chateau was considered the largest and most majestic of all the chateaux. In addition, it was partly designed by Leonardo Da Vinci who contributed the famous double stair case. This structure was decorated in the Renaissance style and used the fleur-de-lis as its design motif.
The Chateau de Fontainebleau had large structures, formal gardens, lakes, fountains, and an elaborate exterior. The Galerie in the chateau set a fashion in decoration that was copied all throughout Europe. This structure features coffered ceilings, carved wall paneling, paintings, sculptures, and high relief stucco ornament.
The exteriors were becoming important and often the interiors did not reflect the exterior style all too well. Due to the weather, roofs usually had 2 slopes with dormer windows. Many of the roofs were steep and the structures also required chimneys.
Past
Present
Extra Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UtIrkrBorM
The French Period was composed of many subdivisions including :
Early Renaissance (1484-1547)
Middle Renaissance (1547-1589)
Late Renaissance (1589-1643)
Baroque Style (1643-1700)
Regency Style (1700-1730)
Rococo Style (1730-1760)
Neoclassical Style (1760-1789)
Revolution and Directoire (1789-1804)
Empire (1804-1820)
Restoration Style (1830-1879)
Francois I was the most famous patron of the arts. He ruled during a transitional style and many Gothic forms with Italian Renaissance ornaments were incorporated. During this time the Chateau de Chambord, Chateau de Fontainebleau, and Chateau de Blois were built, as well as the renovations of the Louvre to Renaissance style. Because the main focus was on royalty, there was no need for new religious structure, but rather palaces and chateaux were built.
Francois I began the construction of Chateau Chambord which has 444 rooms, 84 staircases, 365 chimneys and is 14,300 acres of forest, lakes and grassland. This chateau was considered the largest and most majestic of all the chateaux. In addition, it was partly designed by Leonardo Da Vinci who contributed the famous double stair case. This structure was decorated in the Renaissance style and used the fleur-de-lis as its design motif.
The Chateau de Fontainebleau had large structures, formal gardens, lakes, fountains, and an elaborate exterior. The Galerie in the chateau set a fashion in decoration that was copied all throughout Europe. This structure features coffered ceilings, carved wall paneling, paintings, sculptures, and high relief stucco ornament.
The exteriors were becoming important and often the interiors did not reflect the exterior style all too well. Due to the weather, roofs usually had 2 slopes with dormer windows. Many of the roofs were steep and the structures also required chimneys.
Past
Present
Extra Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UtIrkrBorM
Sunday, March 20, 2016
Peer Reviews
Madelyn- She did a good job at introducing this period. I also like how she talked about the furniture and interiors more specifically in detail. Her pictures she chose were excellent examples of the Spanish period and I enjoyed her video, which focused on the Cathedral de Seville
Krista- I like that her focus was on Alhambra. I enjoyed her pictures and map of the structure as well. It gave me a better understanding of this and I also liked reading more about the history behind it.
Krista- I like that her focus was on Alhambra. I enjoyed her pictures and map of the structure as well. It gave me a better understanding of this and I also liked reading more about the history behind it.
Friday, March 18, 2016
Spanish Renaissance
The Spanish Period was during the 16th century and was a fusion of Christian Spain with Moorish Art. The final expulsion of the moors in 1607 led to a great loss to the handicrafts and commerce of southern Spain. Much of the design of this time was influenced by the Moorish, Early Christian, Medieval, and Italian Renaissance. The Italian Renaissance influenced not only the Spanish, but the French as well.
The Moors were from Africa and included some of the world's finest geometricians. They were also supreme ornamentalists and incorporated colorful, exuberant, and fancy pieces in their designs. Many of them were also expert wood workers. Then there were the Mudejars who were Moors that converted to Christianity and became part of the Spanish Christian Groups.
One of the biggest achievements of Moorish architecture and decoration was the Alhambra, located in Granada, Spain. It was built in 1354 and the last of the Spanish palaces completed before the expulsion of the Moors. Even though the exterior was plain, it had numerous courtyards with gardens, fountains, and reflecting pools.
There are more castles in Spain than any other European country and La Mota Castle was one of these castles. It was built in the 15th century located in a town named Medina del Campo. The castle was built by noble Christian families. This structure was built of concrete walls faced with brick.
The Granada Cathedral was a a traditional five aisle building with Gothic vaulting and columns. The Cathedral of Seville is located in Andalusia Spain. It was the largest cathedral of the 15th century. To put things into perspective, it was larger than the Haggia Sophia. This structure demonstrated the cities wealth and held over 500 daily masses.
The Plateresco phase was Gothic or Renaissance in it's construction. This was a phase of minute and delicate ornaments that resembled the work of a silver smith. It was used on exteriors, patios, chures, public buildings, furniture, and accessories. There was also a Desornamentado Phase which was unornamented designs. Its powerful style was characterized by austerity. It also exhibited carefully defined proportions and was applied to courts, ecclesiastical and public buildings.
The Escorial was started by Phillip II in 1562 and completed by Juan de Herrera. It was an imitation of the Temple of Solomon and included a palace and a religious house. Not only was it a royal place for monarchy, but it was also known for its simplicity, sobriety, and plainness.
Herrera Architecture was named after the state architect, Juan de Herrera. It was influenced by Italian Renaissance Architects such as Palladio. This architecture was made up of many classic forms, plain surfaces, and sparse decorations. There were impressive horizontal unified compositions and a nude use of granite.
The Baroque style of churrugueresco replaced the desornamentado with something more passionate. It was promoted by a family of craftsmen named Churriguera and was composed of sculptures, wood carvers, and architects. The Churrigueresco style of surface decoration was applied to exterior doorways, interior decorations and churches. The motifs were natural objects and the classical orders were used in unconventional ways.
Residential design for this period was influenced by Moorish design. Numerous modest rural houses were built, yet the decorations in patios, galleries, doorways, and windows were elaborate in contrast to the plain walls. The most artistic features were the iron grilles on windows and openings. One can also associate colored tiles and painted and carved ceilings for the interiors of this time.
Some of the characteristics of Spanish furniture include simplicity and boldness, heavy proportions, rectangular shapes, repetitive panels that created a pattern, walnut wood, and silver used for ornamentation. Most of the furniture was made of walnut and pushed up against the walls. There was a limited number of pieces including chairs, stools, benches, tables, chests, beds, cupboards, and varguenos.
Past
Present
Extra Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avJzQ8-QCYI
Sunday, March 6, 2016
Peer Reviews
Rachael- Her post was extremely thorough and informative. The bullet points made it easier to follow and understand, it also made the post more organized. She did a great job at listing all the main aspects of the buildings, structures, pieces of furniture, and interiors.
Katie-I think she did a great job at describing this time period. I also like how she included the famous architects of this time. Her pictures also fit the post very nicely and went along with what she talked about. I also think she did a good job at describing the furniture.
Katie-I think she did a great job at describing this time period. I also like how she included the famous architects of this time. Her pictures also fit the post very nicely and went along with what she talked about. I also think she did a good job at describing the furniture.
Saturday, March 5, 2016
Italian Renaissance
The Italian Renaissance lasted from 1400-1600. Renaissance means "rebirth" and that us what this era was all about. Classical forms were refined and adapted for new uses. The interiors were furnished with pieces that went along with Gothic and Romanesque design styles. During this time, the church had become very powerful and corrupt. There was also a shift from a religious to secular emphasis. Many reforms were made within the church by a man named Martin Luther. Art, literature, architecture, and theatre were rising interests during this time along with the invention of the printing press. Everyone in Italy had a passion and interest in the arts, no matter how wealthy or poor. Residential design was also beginning to become more popular. There was also a shift in thought and design, rather than focusing on safety, strength, and protection, people tended to focus more on comfort, convenience, and beauty. In addition, people tried to move towards humanism through the writings of Dante.
The buildings that were inspired by the medieval concept began adding Ancient Roman style and details. Most of the emphasis during the Italian Renaissance was on interior architecture instead of the furniture. They also focused on horizontal lines and designs, as well as symmetry.
One of the finest achievements of the Italian Renaissance was the Italian Renaissance palace. It showed great power and influence of one of the prominent families in Italy, the Medici family. the building exhibits symmetry, compound repeat window, and a heavy cornice. There was a central courtyard, just like the Roman domus, no hallways, and walls pierced with niches. Residents were located on the 2nd and 3rd floor and there were also businesses and repair shops.
Another great structure from this time period was the Plazzo Davanzati. It is located in Florence,Italy and is a perfect representation of the transition form Gothic to Early Renaissance. Its interiors contained frescos, tapestries, and fireplaces, all of which were centered around an interior courtyard.
Plazzo Medici was another famous structure located in Florence, Italy. The architect was a man named Michelozzo di Bartolommeo. The floor plans included 3 principles: symmetry which included a central entrance with a vestible leading to the courtyard, Public rooms immediately accessible from the main entrance, and divisions among the Plazzo into smaller apartments.
The most influential architect in all of the Renaissance was Andrea Palladio. He wrote The Four Books on Architecture as well as designed the Villa Rotondo. Each side of the structure has a temple front including stairs, six columns, entablature, and pediment. The rooms were arranged symmetrically around the dome. Palladio was also the one who recommended architectural proportions based on the models from the Classical world.
Another man who was a great architectural influence was Michaelangelo. He was an Italian sculptor, painter, architect, poet, and engineer. His "David" sculpture was one of the most renowned works of the Renaissance, along with the ceiling of the Sistine chapel.
Leonardo Da Vinci was also an impactful man. He was not only a painter and sculptor, but also an architect, musician, scientist, mathematician, engineer, writer, and more. He was the most diversely gifted person that ever lived. Some of his most famous works include the painting of The Last Supper (1498 AD), Self Portrait (1512 AD), and the Mona Lisa (1503-1505 AD)
Many of the interiors exhibited contrasting light and shadows from 3D moldings. There was paneling on furniture and surfaces, frescos which expanded the space, and elaborate turnings for support as well as ornamentation. Many of the ceilings were coffered and the walls were adorned with decoration. Some of the interiors had elaborate fireplace mantels and many had decorative moldings. The floors were either brick, terra-cotta tile, or marble, all places in geometric patterns.
As for the furniture, they were very portable and sparse pieces. the finest furniture included walnut. They also had inlays of ivory, lapis, marble, and onyx.
Present
The buildings that were inspired by the medieval concept began adding Ancient Roman style and details. Most of the emphasis during the Italian Renaissance was on interior architecture instead of the furniture. They also focused on horizontal lines and designs, as well as symmetry.
One of the finest achievements of the Italian Renaissance was the Italian Renaissance palace. It showed great power and influence of one of the prominent families in Italy, the Medici family. the building exhibits symmetry, compound repeat window, and a heavy cornice. There was a central courtyard, just like the Roman domus, no hallways, and walls pierced with niches. Residents were located on the 2nd and 3rd floor and there were also businesses and repair shops.
Another great structure from this time period was the Plazzo Davanzati. It is located in Florence,Italy and is a perfect representation of the transition form Gothic to Early Renaissance. Its interiors contained frescos, tapestries, and fireplaces, all of which were centered around an interior courtyard.
Plazzo Medici was another famous structure located in Florence, Italy. The architect was a man named Michelozzo di Bartolommeo. The floor plans included 3 principles: symmetry which included a central entrance with a vestible leading to the courtyard, Public rooms immediately accessible from the main entrance, and divisions among the Plazzo into smaller apartments.
The most influential architect in all of the Renaissance was Andrea Palladio. He wrote The Four Books on Architecture as well as designed the Villa Rotondo. Each side of the structure has a temple front including stairs, six columns, entablature, and pediment. The rooms were arranged symmetrically around the dome. Palladio was also the one who recommended architectural proportions based on the models from the Classical world.
Another man who was a great architectural influence was Michaelangelo. He was an Italian sculptor, painter, architect, poet, and engineer. His "David" sculpture was one of the most renowned works of the Renaissance, along with the ceiling of the Sistine chapel.
Leonardo Da Vinci was also an impactful man. He was not only a painter and sculptor, but also an architect, musician, scientist, mathematician, engineer, writer, and more. He was the most diversely gifted person that ever lived. Some of his most famous works include the painting of The Last Supper (1498 AD), Self Portrait (1512 AD), and the Mona Lisa (1503-1505 AD)
Many of the interiors exhibited contrasting light and shadows from 3D moldings. There was paneling on furniture and surfaces, frescos which expanded the space, and elaborate turnings for support as well as ornamentation. Many of the ceilings were coffered and the walls were adorned with decoration. Some of the interiors had elaborate fireplace mantels and many had decorative moldings. The floors were either brick, terra-cotta tile, or marble, all places in geometric patterns.
As for the furniture, they were very portable and sparse pieces. the finest furniture included walnut. They also had inlays of ivory, lapis, marble, and onyx.
Past
Present
Extra Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wLHBHA0sVgE
Saturday, February 27, 2016
Peer Reviews: China and India
Alex- She did a nice job with her post. It covered the main topics and was well written.
Angie- Her post was interesting to read and helped me to get a better understanding of these periods. Her pictures also helped me to visualize the main components the design styles.
Angie- Her post was interesting to read and helped me to get a better understanding of these periods. Her pictures also helped me to visualize the main components the design styles.
Peer Reviews: The Americas
Holli- Her post was very informative and thorough. I like that she broke it up into different sections, it made it organized and easier to read. Her pictures were also all excellent examples of what this period was about.
Emma- Her post was brief yet to the point. It was written in a way that kept me interested and wanting to know more! I like how she focused on the structures, their construction, and design.
Emma- Her post was brief yet to the point. It was written in a way that kept me interested and wanting to know more! I like how she focused on the structures, their construction, and design.
The Americas
The Americas were a time the spanned from 2000BC-1521AD. This included the Olmec (1st dominant culture in southern Mexico), Aztec (Mexico), Inca (Peru), and Mayan-Toltec (Central America) civilizations. The geography of these places were humid and tropical in the low lands, and extreme climate shifts were experienced in the mountains.
Religion played an important role in these civilizations as well. Temples and pyramids were build to represent the gods and powers of the region. Ceremonial centers were the main factor of Mesoamerican settlement. These civilizations were also polytheistic which means that they worshiped more than 1 god.
The Olmecs were the first major civilization in Mexico and were around from 2000BC-200BC. They were the ones who developed hieroglyphic writing. Their temple focused in the city type and the jaguar was the symbol of their chief deity. They were also known for the Mesoamerican ballgame and realistic artwork. La Venta was the first example of a temple that focused on the city type. The ceremony center was composed of the Great pyramid of earth, ball court, smaller pyramids, burial grounds, and giant stone heads. The giant stone heads were sculpted from basalt boulder and weighed from 40-50 tons. Their artwork consisted of delicate carvings of jade, rock crystal, and less valuable stone. Ax heads, masks, and decorative objects were also a form of their art, as well as mural paintings and pottery.
Social life consisted of elites who lived in highly decorated homes and wore elegant jewelry and clothing, and commoners who lived in homes made of sticks and mud. They had a diverse diet and food sources for commoners were reliable. Shamans, people who believed they had a direct contact to a deity, gave advice about agriculture and periodic rain to leaders.
Their specific religion was comprised of the belief of multiple deities and gods. People became close to the gods from bloodletting and human sacrifices. Small ceramic figurines, stone carvings, and utilitarian pots were associated with religious beliefs.
The Teotihuacan empire reigned from 250BC-900AD and was named "Place of the gods." The city was laid out in a grid and was abruptly deserted. Their ceremonial center was 2 miles in length, had a central spine which was also referred to as the road of the dead, and included the Temple of the Feathered Serpent and the Pyramid of the Sun/Pyramid of the Moon. The ruling elite were on raised platforms in the city; beyond that was the houses of artisans and peasants. They did not have city walls which was a sign of a powerful society without enemies. Their art was decorative and utilitarian pottery. Some of their decorative motifs included birds, butterflies, flowers, and abstract signs.
The Mayans were around from 300BC-1521AD and flourished for 1,800 years. They occupied the high and lowlands of the areas that are current day Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. Unfortunately, they were destroyed by the Spanish conquest of 1519.
The Aztecs lived around 1150-1520 AD. This was Tenochtitlan's center capitol of Aztec civilization. Some major structure and pyramids from the Aztecs are Templo Mayor which was 2 temples that worshiped the god of war and the god of agriculture, Pyramid of the Sun and moon which were made from stone and brick, Montezuma's throne, and floating gardens. Their architecture expressed their thoughts and beliefs, and the creation of art was their thoughts on life.
Finally, the Incas were around from 1200-1572CE and were the largest empire in Pre-Columbia America. They were known for their architecture and were masters of stone cutting. Machu-Pichu was located in a seismically unstable area, yet is the most notable area in Peru. It was built wihtout mortar and included a royal estate of the Incan emperor Pachacuti. The empires were isolated and had a deep connection to the metaphysical world. Their concepts were that of open spaces and its relationship to buildings.
Past
Present
Extra Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fz_k0Tl3x0A&list=PL5D2191207A1D7105
Religion played an important role in these civilizations as well. Temples and pyramids were build to represent the gods and powers of the region. Ceremonial centers were the main factor of Mesoamerican settlement. These civilizations were also polytheistic which means that they worshiped more than 1 god.
The Olmecs were the first major civilization in Mexico and were around from 2000BC-200BC. They were the ones who developed hieroglyphic writing. Their temple focused in the city type and the jaguar was the symbol of their chief deity. They were also known for the Mesoamerican ballgame and realistic artwork. La Venta was the first example of a temple that focused on the city type. The ceremony center was composed of the Great pyramid of earth, ball court, smaller pyramids, burial grounds, and giant stone heads. The giant stone heads were sculpted from basalt boulder and weighed from 40-50 tons. Their artwork consisted of delicate carvings of jade, rock crystal, and less valuable stone. Ax heads, masks, and decorative objects were also a form of their art, as well as mural paintings and pottery.
Social life consisted of elites who lived in highly decorated homes and wore elegant jewelry and clothing, and commoners who lived in homes made of sticks and mud. They had a diverse diet and food sources for commoners were reliable. Shamans, people who believed they had a direct contact to a deity, gave advice about agriculture and periodic rain to leaders.
Their specific religion was comprised of the belief of multiple deities and gods. People became close to the gods from bloodletting and human sacrifices. Small ceramic figurines, stone carvings, and utilitarian pots were associated with religious beliefs.
The Teotihuacan empire reigned from 250BC-900AD and was named "Place of the gods." The city was laid out in a grid and was abruptly deserted. Their ceremonial center was 2 miles in length, had a central spine which was also referred to as the road of the dead, and included the Temple of the Feathered Serpent and the Pyramid of the Sun/Pyramid of the Moon. The ruling elite were on raised platforms in the city; beyond that was the houses of artisans and peasants. They did not have city walls which was a sign of a powerful society without enemies. Their art was decorative and utilitarian pottery. Some of their decorative motifs included birds, butterflies, flowers, and abstract signs.
The Mayans were around from 300BC-1521AD and flourished for 1,800 years. They occupied the high and lowlands of the areas that are current day Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. Unfortunately, they were destroyed by the Spanish conquest of 1519.
The Aztecs lived around 1150-1520 AD. This was Tenochtitlan's center capitol of Aztec civilization. Some major structure and pyramids from the Aztecs are Templo Mayor which was 2 temples that worshiped the god of war and the god of agriculture, Pyramid of the Sun and moon which were made from stone and brick, Montezuma's throne, and floating gardens. Their architecture expressed their thoughts and beliefs, and the creation of art was their thoughts on life.
Finally, the Incas were around from 1200-1572CE and were the largest empire in Pre-Columbia America. They were known for their architecture and were masters of stone cutting. Machu-Pichu was located in a seismically unstable area, yet is the most notable area in Peru. It was built wihtout mortar and included a royal estate of the Incan emperor Pachacuti. The empires were isolated and had a deep connection to the metaphysical world. Their concepts were that of open spaces and its relationship to buildings.
Past
Present
Extra Credit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fz_k0Tl3x0A&list=PL5D2191207A1D7105
Thursday, February 25, 2016
China and India
China is the world's longest continuous civilization and the largest population today. The invented the Pagoda which is a combination of the stupa and Chinese tower building. A stupa is a mound of dirt where a monument structure is built over the mound. The stupa came to China as Buddhism spread to the region. The only limitations of the stupa is that there is no space for visitors.
The Great Wall of China is one of the most magnificent accomplishments of China. Made of stone, brick, wood, mud, and earth, the Great Wall runs along the northern border of China. Its is 5500-13000 miles long. and includes watch towers.
Many of the interiors, both residential and commercial, are based on a courtyard building style. The orientation and layout was mainly symmetrical. As for the furniture, the form was light, beautiful, and stable. Certain materials that were used to make chairs were Huali wood, lacquer, ceramic, and bamboo.
Indian architecture and construction also included a stupa, just as the Chinese. Their stupas acknowledged important people in the Buddhist religion. The same limitations applied just like the Chinese stupas.
As for the interiors, many Indian structures had a lack of furniture. For the most part, people sat, ate, and slept on the floor.
Past
The Great Wall of China is one of the most magnificent accomplishments of China. Made of stone, brick, wood, mud, and earth, the Great Wall runs along the northern border of China. Its is 5500-13000 miles long. and includes watch towers.
Many of the interiors, both residential and commercial, are based on a courtyard building style. The orientation and layout was mainly symmetrical. As for the furniture, the form was light, beautiful, and stable. Certain materials that were used to make chairs were Huali wood, lacquer, ceramic, and bamboo.
Indian architecture and construction also included a stupa, just as the Chinese. Their stupas acknowledged important people in the Buddhist religion. The same limitations applied just like the Chinese stupas.
As for the interiors, many Indian structures had a lack of furniture. For the most part, people sat, ate, and slept on the floor.
Past
Present
Extra Credit: http://www.discovery.com/tv-shows/other-shows/videos/discovery-atlas-china-revealed-chinese-architecture/
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