MENU: 2.4.2. Nobles. Gods. Heroes
MYTHOLOGY AND ALLEGORY SUDDENLY DOMINATE THE ART OF KINGS AND NOBLES*
(FROM ABOUT 1500)
*Hereditary landowners, who occupied a privileged legal status and controlled the State until the French and 1830 Revolutions overthrew them.
The change coincides with the vibrant capitalism explorations and discoveries launch:
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Discoveries in 1502 /zoom |
This earliest map of the Age of Discovery was kept secretly at the Portuguese court. A diplomat had it cut in pieces, stole it and gave it to the Duke of Ferrare.
Confronted by commoners whose growing wealth meant challenge, nobles turned to the gods of Antiquity, Old Testament figures and Rome...
Diane de Poitiers as Diana, goddess of the hunt, toward 1550 / zoom
Nudity, the clothing of gods
Diane de Poitiers was a member of the top nobility and the favorite of Henri II (1547-59). Nudity underscores her power: "Take me for a goddess!" this work trumpets.
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The Reconciliation of Jacob and Esau by Arnould De Vuez toward 1678, Baulme Fine Arts / zoom |
Biblical figures are clothed,
but have the bodies of gods.
In brief
- Background: All aspects of life buttress nobles' superiority
- Supermen: the décor of châteaux and churches
- A queen's apotheosis
- An plea for peace and a threat of revolt
- A tantrum changes the course of history... for awhile
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