How Would You Describe a Canon as It Applies to Art History?

Art|Art History

A canon is a term used to describe a set of artworks that are held up as exemplary, or noteworthy examples of an artist’s style. A canon is often established by art historians, critics, or other experts who have studied the history of a particular artist or period of art. This group of works is often considered to be the “best” works by the artist, and are most widely known and discussed.

The word “canon” originally comes from the Greek word for “rule” or “measure.” In terms of art history, it refers to a set of works that have been deemed important and influential enough to be included in textbooks and other educational materials. The canon is often seen as an authoritative source on the history of art because it has been determined by experts in the field.

The concept of a canon has been around since ancient times, but it was formalized in the 19th century when art academics began to create lists of important works that they felt should be studied and discussed in depth. These works were usually chosen based on their historical significance and their ability to represent key aspects of the culture at that time. This selection process has changed over time as new aesthetic trends become popular and more diverse forms of artwork are included in canons.

In recent years, there has been more focus on creating more diverse canons that include women artists and those from different racial backgrounds. This has led to a more inclusive approach to studying art history and recognizing the contributions from various cultures around the world.

A canon is an important tool for understanding how styles have evolved over time and how different cultures have influenced each other’s artwork. It also provides insight into major historical events that shaped the development of certain styles or movements within art history. Ultimately, it serves as an important reference for those looking to gain a better appreciation for the rich visual heritage created throughout human history.

Conclusion: In short, a canon is an authoritative list of works deemed important by experts in art history that serves as an invaluable resource for gaining a deeper understanding into how styles have evolved over time, how different cultures have interacted with each other through artwork, and major historical events which shaped these developments across human history.