Contrast the "Elevation of the Cross" by Rubens with Rembrandt's Return of the Prodigal Son.

Question

How does each work demonstrate the Baroque style?
How does each work mirror the social and political climate of the time?

**Hope someone can Help,Please! =)

Answer 1

A: Dramatic style, light and context in my opinion no other paintings portray baroque style as The Prodigal Son by Rembrandt van Rijin, The Raising of the cross by Peter Paul Ruben and The Conversion of Saint Paul by Michelangelo da Caravaggio. This style was very popular during the 17th century art. Mr. Caravaggio was known as the father of baroque art. He used earth realism and dramatic use of light broke from the renaissance idealism and became the leading influences of other baroque painters like Rembrandt who made many versions of Caravaggio’s master pieces like “Abraham’s Sacrifice.”The Conversion of Saint Paul was one of Caravaggio’s great works. The painting depicts the moment recounted in Chapter 9 of Acts of the Apostles. Caravaggio uses lighting, and low horizon lines to make the images seem closer to viewers. He masterfully uses foreshortening and his main focus is on action. He also uses chiaroscuro and atmosphere perspectives.