Sometimes that’s all art really is about–polar opposites. Sometimes you can consider it a balance; as a matter of fact, art requires balance, for its very nature encompasses all personality and depth–so much so that balance is necessary to remain stable. Like a spinning top that never falls–only in a dream, yes?
Such is the case when dealing with art periods, endeavoring to celebrate a contrast or comparison and learn more about certain movements and the characteristics. Two in particular not only shared opposite characteristics but also occurred in our history back to back–
Those two art periods are the Baroque and Rococo. Before the 18th century, Baroque was king until Rococo was the answer to counter some of those classic characteristics.
To better understand how these two art periods differed, look at the Baroque period first. Shading and dark colors, angular lines and a sort of deep mood about some of the masterpieces in the period spoke of true Baroque with such famous painters of the period being Rembrandt with his “Philosopher in Meditation” and Caravaggio’s “The Calling of St. Matthew,” two utterly dark but enigmatic paintings touched with bits of light color.
The Rococo was completely different, emphasizing lighter pastels, an airy and feminine quality–almost without regard to the state of problems or suffering in the world, such as with Jean Honore Frangonard’s “The Swing” and Antoine Watteau’s “Pilgrimage to Cythera.” Light eroticism was another beautiful touch to the Rococo as an answer to the dark religious overtones the Baroque carried.
You can find other opposites in art history; and without a doubt, when studying art, it’s the best way to learn some of the movements. There’s no doubt, though, at least by standard of opinion: of the many periods and movements in our art history, the Baroque and Rococo stand as the most individualist of movements with their own unique qualities. Cherish them with pride if you adore the beauty of art in our world.