Renaissance Elements That Influenced Art in Netherlands
Renaissance movement began in Italy and spread throughout Europe till the 16th century. In the year 1500, the influence of this movement commenced to show in Netherlands. Various new elements have been taken by the artists in painting, architecture, sculpture and clothing etc. But, some of the aspects remain medieval. People's style of clothing was changed, and the showy renaissance costume came in the limelight.
Still, the influence of religious and narrative styles could be perfectly observed on the paintings of the artists of reawakening era in Netherlands. In the 15th century, there was a strong religious influence on the paintings, unlike the Germanic paintings. This influence could not be shunned even on the arrival of 16th century. Hieronymus Bosch was the first painter, on whom renaissance influence could be vividly witnessed. But, his portraits are highly based on the irrational themes, which are arduous to interpret. Moreover, he had introduced the world of dreams, as opposed to the works of his contemporary traditional painters.
More interest in nature and beauty could be witnessed among the Flemish and Dutch painters after 1550. Renaissance elements were adopted in their works, but still they were far from the lightness of Italian Renaissance. Joachim Patinir and Pieter Aertson were the masters, who provided the good works. Another painter, Pieter Brueghel the Elder is thought to be a genius. He portrayed nature and everyday life. Moreover, the themes of his portraits were the peasants and not the princes. His prominent focus was on depicting the natural state of a human. 'Landscape with the Fall of Icarus' is one of the best examples of his work, in which a number of elements of Northern Renaissance have been combined.
On the other hand, the renaissance architecture took some time in entering in Netherlands. The influence of the new era had been accepted, but it could not completely replace the gothic elements. Hendrick de Keyser was a great architect of 16th and 17th century, who gave his contribution in the development of Amsterdam Renaissance style. Another name that we can take in this regard is Hans Vredeman de Vries, who primarily developed the garden architecture. In sculptures, Giambologna and Cornelis Floris de Vriendt were two most significant names. Giambologna was the sculptor of Southern Netherlands, whose most of the career was spent in Italy. Cornelis Floris de Vriendt's name is taken for acquiring the direct influence from the Italian masters.
The new-age art also influenced the dressing styles. The medieval costume were evolved into flamboyant renaissance costumes. There is no doubt that the influence of renaissance elements paved the way for a new era in Netherlands.