Art And Patronage

In this thesis, the author treats the history of art from the aspect of "patrons" but not "artists". The 17^th century of Europe is an important period in the history of western art. In this period, there is a series of renovation upon the four aspects of art: the aesthetic conception, the style of art, the theme and content of works and the form of art expression . Various kinds of art style coexisted in this history period and influenced each other. Just did the art patronage lead this situation. When the Baroque style happened in Italy where reigned by Roman Catholicism, the art of Classicism became the favor of the King of France and Realism is the leading manner of art in Netherland. From the patrons of religious organization, royalty and nobilities and common citizens who supported the art activities , the author dissertated how the three kinds of patronage mechanics impact the artistic development of Europe in the 17th century.