What Is Severe Style in Art History?

Art|Art History

Severe Style in art history is a term used to describe the art of ancient Greece and Rome, particularly the works of the fifth century BC. This style is characterized by its simplicity and restraint, as well as its focus on form rather than color or texture. It is considered one of the most important artistic styles in world history and has had a major influence on modern art.

The Severe Style was developed over a period of several centuries, beginning with the Minoan civilization in the second millennium BC. It was then adopted by ancient Greek sculptors and painters during the Archaic period, who began to create works that emphasized balance and harmony in their compositions.

These works often featured geometric shapes such as circles and triangles, as well as abstract forms such as spirals and zig-zags. They also used a limited palette of colors, often relying on white marble for their sculptures.

The Severe Style reached its peak during the Classical period when it became associated with classical Greek temples and statues. These monuments were often decorated with intricate carved designs that represented the gods or goddesses they were built to honor.

During this period, many sculptors began to experiment with human forms, creating statues that were realistic yet idealized representations of their subjects. This style continued into the Hellenistic period where it was further refined by artists like Praxiteles and Lysippos who created iconic sculptures like Hermes at Olympia or Zeus at Olympia which are still admired today for their beauty and grace.

The Severe Style had a profound influence on later artists including Michelangelo who sought to emulate its restrained elegance in his own works like The Pieta or David. Its influence can also be seen in Renaissance painting where its emphasis on form helped to create more realistic depictions of people and objects than those found in medieval art. Its legacy has been felt throughout art history up until today where it continues to be an important part of many artistic styles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Severe Style is an important artistic style that has had a major influence on modern art throughout history from ancient Greece to today’s contemporary artworks. It is characterized by simplicity, restraint, focus on form rather than color or texture, geometric shapes such as circles and triangles, abstract forms such as spirals and zig-zags, and a limited palette of colors often relying on white marble for sculptures. Its legacy has been felt throughout all periods of art history up until today.