How Do You Write an Art History Comparison?

Art|Art History

The ability to compare two pieces of art is a skill that every art historian should have. Writing an art history comparison requires careful examination and analysis, as well as some creativity in making connections between the works.

To write a successful comparison, start by selecting two pieces of art that have similar features, like style, technique, or subject matter. Then analyze each piece in detail to identify the elements that are shared between them. Finally, draw on your observations to explain how the two works are connected and how they differ.

When analyzing each piece of art, consider both formal elements (such as color palette, line quality, composition) and contextual elements (such as historical context, artist biography). Art historians often find it helpful to make a list of similarities and differences between the two works. This can help you identify patterns in the works and start forming your argument about the relationship between them.

Make Connections Between the Works

Once you’ve identified similarities and differences between the two works, you can begin making connections. What do these shared elements suggest about symbolism or meaning?

Are there any themes or motifs running through both pieces? How does one work expand upon or contradict ideas presented in the other? Making these connections is an important part of writing an art history comparison.

Perspective & Argument

As you write your comparison essay, be sure to keep your perspective consistent throughout. It’s also important to make sure that each point is backed up with evidence from both pieces of art. By grounding your argument in evidence from both works, you can create a persuasive essay that shows readers why these two pieces are related.

Writing an art history comparison can be a challenging but rewarding task. By taking time to analyze the formal and contextual elements of both works, you can make meaningful connections between them and develop an interesting argument about their relationship.

Conclusion: How Do You Write an Art History Comparison? Writing an art history comparison requires careful examination and analysis of both pieces of art being compared.

Start by examining each piece’s formal elements (color palette, line quality) and contextual elements (historical context). Make a list of similarities and differences then connect them with arguments supported by evidence from both artwork pieces. This will help create a persuasive essay showing readers why these works are related.