Contrast The Elevation of the Cross by Rubens with Rembrandt’s Return of the Prodigal Son. Explain how each work reflects the artist and his temperament. How does each work mirror sociopolitical environment of each artist? Use one example from Gardner’s Art through the Ages and one from the Internet.
To contrast The Elevation of the Cross by Rubens with Rembrandt's Return of the Prodigal Son and analyze how each work reflects the artist and their temperament, as well as the sociopolitical environments, you can follow these steps:
1. Research Rubens' The Elevation of the Cross:
- Consult the relevant section in Gardner's Art through the Ages or any other art history book that discusses Rubens and his work.
- Analyze the elements of the painting, such as composition, technique, and subject matter.
- Consider Rubens' artistic style, which is known for robust figures, dynamic compositions, and a Baroque energy.
2. Research Rembrandt's Return of the Prodigal Son:
- Consult the relevant section in Gardner's Art through the Ages or any other art history book that discusses Rembrandt and his work.
- Analyze the elements of the painting, such as composition, technique, and subject matter.
- Consider Rembrandt's artistic style, characterized by strong chiaroscuro (contrasts of light and shadow), psychological depth, and introspective portrayals.
3. Compare the artworks:
- Note the differences in style and technique between Rubens and Rembrandt. Rubens' painting may have a more vibrant and active character, while Rembrandt's may have a more introspective and emotive quality.
- Consider how these differences reflect the artists' temperaments. Rubens, with his energetic and dramatic approach, may be seen as extroverted and passionate. Rembrandt, with his intense focus on psychological depth and emotion, may be seen as introverted and contemplative.
4. Analyze the sociopolitical environments:
- Examine Rubens' painting within its context. Rubens was active during the Counter-Reformation, where the Catholic Church aimed to reassert its authority. The Elevation of the Cross reflects this with its religious subject matter and the emphasis on the divine power of the Catholic Church.
- Study Rembrandt's painting within its context. Rembrandt was active during the Dutch Golden Age, a period of economic prosperity and artistic achievement in the Netherlands. The Return of the Prodigal Son reflects the emphasis on moral teachings and individual introspection that was prevalent during this time.
5. Find examples from Gardner's Art through the Ages and the internet:
- Gardner's Art through the Ages: Refer to specific sections or images that discuss Rubens' and Rembrandt's works to gain a deeper understanding of their artistic temperaments and the sociopolitical environments they were in.
- The internet: Use reputable art history websites, museums' virtual collections, or scholarly articles to find additional information about the artists and their works. These sources may provide insights into the context in which the artworks were created.
By following these steps, you will be able to gain a thorough understanding of how each work reflects the artist and their temperament, as well as the sociopolitical environment in which they were created.