How Do You Write a Comparison in Art History?

Art|Art History

Writing a comparison in art history is an important skill for any artist or art historian. It involves taking two works of art, looking at their similarities and differences, and then making an informed judgement about their relative importance. Comparing two works of art can be done in a variety of ways, including by looking at the artists’ use of materials, techniques, and subject matter.

Materials – Artists use a variety of materials in their work. Comparing the materials used in two works can help to identify differences and similarities between them. For example, if one work was created with oil paint on canvas and another with watercolor on paper, this could suggest that the former was intended for long-term preservation whereas the latter was meant to be viewed more ephemerally.

Techniques – Artists also employ different techniques in their work. Examining the techniques used in two works can reveal much about how different artists approach similar subjects or themes. For example, if one painting has a smooth surface texture and crisp edges while another has a rough texture and blurred edges, this could suggest that one artist used more traditional methods while another sought out new ways to express their ideas.

Subject Matter – The subject matter chosen by an artist is often indicative of their intent and influences. Comparing the subject matter between two works can provide insight into how they relate to each other conceptually as well as historically. For instance, if one work depicts classical figures while another depicts more contemporary figures it could suggest that the artist is exploring different aspects of human experience over time or exploring old traditions through new perspectives.

Conclusion

Comparing two works of art can be an enlightening exercise for both artists and art historians alike. By examining the materials used, techniques employed, and subject matter chosen by each artist it is possible to gain insights into how they approached similar topics from different perspectives as well as what elements have remained constant throughout history.