After the Mannerist period, the Baroque was a cultural era that arose in Rome in the 17th century and involved literature, art, philosophy and music.
In Baroque art, the idea is to emotionally involve the viewer through dynamic, deliberately excessive and lavish works. The paintings often depict an action in progress, capable of triggering strong feelings. The sculptures are deliberately twisted and assume bold poses. An example is Bernini’s David, captured at the moment when he is throwing a stone with a slingshot. His muscles are tense and pulled, his gaze furrowed and concentrated, his lips tight. In painting, the lights and shadows of Michelangelo Merisi, known as Caravaggio, stand out.
