Fashion in the Baroque Period

The period from 1600-1700’s is referred to as the Baroque period which occurred in Rome and Italy. Though it later spread to Europe too. Fancy embellishments and impractical clothing define the majority of the clothing in this period. The clothing is very luxurious and displays the wealth of the people.

The upper class people wore outer garments which were made of silk, velvet and brocades instead of linen which was not very fine as compared to the others. Whereas, lower class people wore clothes made of wool.

Vibrant as well as pastel colors were prevalent for the rich people. Large floral prints were preferred by the rich people who later changed to stripes and small floral prints. On the other hand, the poor people wore light and dull colors because they couldn’t afford the expensive process of dying their colors.

Men’s Fashion:

During this period, men’s fashion became precious. Even some trends of women’s clothing like high waits, wide lace collars and lace cuffs were beginning to be used by men too. Wide hats with feathers attached to it, knee-high boots, pointed beards and moustaches and capes over the shoulder were also in fashion.

Decorative pants ending below the knee (like skirts) became popular and was worn with lace ruffles below them. The necklines were decorated with large collars. Instead of the boots which were born in earlier times, high heel shoes became prevalent. For their hairstyle, they curled their shoulder-length hair or otherwise wore wigs.

   

1. Rich Class:

Buttons, lace and embroidery were the various types of embellishments used by men. At times, their outfits were decorated with around 500 bows.

2. Middle Class:

Middle class men had to follow the outdated fashion because of their inability to dress like the upper class. Outdated fashion referred to high necklines and ruffs.

3. Lower Class:

The occupation of such people decided their clothing. Women, who served other people, were seen wearing a small ruff, linen chemise, wool skirt and apron.

   

Women’s Fashion:

Tight fitting and stiff clothing was now beginning to be replaced by loose and flexible one. Deep plunge necks, high waistlines and stiff stomachers became popular. Large sleeves gathered at the wrist or elbow was in fashion, which eventually became more ruffled. Solid colors and even embroidery were more popular than the patterns on fabrics. Overskirt and underskirt were usually worn by women.

   

They used to curl their hair which lied at the forehead. But eventually, they became higher. Bathing was not a part of daily routine of the people because they thought that water was bad for the skin. So to smell good, they wore perfumes and carried scented purses.

Ironically, women’s footwear was much less complicated than those of men’s. Even jewellery was also very simple including a single pearl of diamond string or a ribbon.

   

Women belonging to the rich class did not wear hoop skirts now. They wore numerous petticoats instead of that. Lower necklines were in fashion and sleeves were gathered on the arm.

References:

1. zeesonlinespace.net, (2014). History Of Fashion – Baroque. [online] Available at: http://fashionhistory.zeesonlinespace.net/baroque.html [Accessed 3 Dec. 2014].
2. Barton, M. (2014). History of Baroque Clothing | eHow. [online] eHow. Available at: http://www.ehow.com/info_8608112_history-baroque-clothing.html [Accessed 3 Dec. 2014].
3. History of Costume, (2012). The Baroque Period in all its Grandiloquence. [online] Available at: https://historyofeuropeanfashion.wordpress.com/2012/04/07/the-baroque-period-in-all-its-grandiloquence/ [Accessed 3 Dec. 2014].
4. Pinterest, (2014). Gravuras. [online] Available at: http://www.pinterest.com/pin/182958803586110244/ [Accessed 3 Dec. 2014].
5. com, (2014). [online] Available at: http://www.reconstructinghistory.com/image_lib/cryesoldsuits.gif [Accessed 3 Dec. 2014].
6. files.wordpress.com, (2014). [online] Available at: http://sonyagnb.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/pog10.jpg [Accessed 3 Dec. 2014].
7. com, (2014). [online] Available at: http://www.wemakehistory.com/Fashion/Regency/RegencyMen/RM02.jpg [Accessed 3 Dec. 2014].
8. wordpress.com, (2014). Baroque/Rococo 1650-1800 | History of Costume. [online] Available at: https://historyofeuropeanfashion.wordpress.com/category/baroquerococo-1650-1800/ [Accessed 3 Dec. 2014].
9. Ash Suneja, (2014). Baroque and Roccoco- The Era of Dynamism and Simplicity. [online] Available at: https://ashsuneja.wordpress.com/2014/11/06/baroque-and-roccoco/ [Accessed 3 Dec. 2014].
10. zeesonlinespace.net, (2014). [online] Available at: http://fashionhistory.zeesonlinespace.net/images/baroque5.gif [Accessed 3 Dec. 2014].

 

ART AND FASHION IN MEDIEVAL AGES (EUROPE)

ART IN MIDDLE AGES:

The medieval period began probably around 300 AD (when the Roman Empire fell) and ended around 1400 AD (when the period of Renaissance started). A large number of works in different mediums were prevalent in those times including sculptures, ceramic art, illuminated manuscripts, panel paintings, embroidery and tapestry art, stained glass, mosaics, fresco, metal work and engravings.

 

In the Early Middle Ages, the prevalent style of art was known as Byzantine Art. And the period was known as Dark ages. The drivers of this period were the authoritative people of the Eastern Orthodox Church. They financed most of the art works produced. Some significant works were very rare and were super costly. They were associated with the churches or monasteries, secular elites. During this period, decorative art such as enamel carving, embroidery were of much higher value than the usual paintings and monumental structures. Roman catacombs or burial crypts are those places where the oldest remains of Christian art have been found.

 

Public appreciation was the main purpose of creating artwork by the middle ages artists. They used classical themes at times. Like Christian scenery was depicted through Roman mosaics made of small pieces. Initially, these mosaics were made in muted colors but later the artists began using vibrant colors too.

The manuscripts during this time had luxuriously illuminated book-covers. Precious metals, ivory and gold adorned them. Even gold was in use very often. Churches, palaces, personal jewelry, mosaic backgrounds or miniatures in manuscripts or panel paintings were some of the things on which gold was found.

Summing up, a few characteristics of the Byzantine art were as follows:

1. Art inspired by religion
2. Artists were the members of religious houses like monasteries
3. Sculptures were not prevalent
4. Sombre tones were preferred
5. There was no perspective in art, it was one dimensional
6. Figures were usually front facing
7. Realism was never portrayed
8. Shadows were not made in any of the art form

FASHION IN MIDDLE AGES

Clothing during this period was influenced by the authorities. It reflected the social status of a person. Moreover, only the royal class could wear the fashionable attires prevalent in those times, ordinary people were not allowed to do so. Mostly, all the dresses were made of wool or any other thick and coarse material. These qualities gave the cloth strength and durability and were difficult to get ruined. If ruined, it was difficult to wash it.

Men’s Fashion:

Since the class of a person was the deciding factor for what clothes one would wear, two typical dresses for upper class men and the peasants is described below:

          

1. Wealthy Men:

In early Middle Ages, a woolen tunic, belted at the waist, with embroidery at sleeves and hem was common among men. Over this, a woolen cloak was also worn which was fastened with a brooch.

In later period, velvet gown was in with a fur-trimmed hem. It was worn over a black padded shirt which had gold embroidery on it. In was short in length so they had to wear stockings to cover their legs. A hat was also worn to reflect their wealth and power in the society.

2. Peasants:

Clothing of peasants or the lower class was always very basic and practical. In early middle Ages, they wore a short tunic over a short trouser. The tunic was as usual belted at the waist. A woolen cowl was also common and over it, a hat was also worn. They used to wear boots too.

Whereas, in the later period, instead of the trousers, stockings became more prevalent. And a woolen jacket became an addition on the tunic. They also wore a small hat.

Additionally, men used to wear colored bands on their shoes, which were tied around the ankle and enhanced the shape of the foot.

Women’s Fashion:

The Greek and the Roman women were a huge inspiration for women during the middle ages. They used to wear tight clothing to reveal the elegance of their shape. They wore 2 tunics, out of which one was longer and the other shorter. Closed pointed shoes also became popular in those times

1. Wealthy Women:

In the early middle ages, a white linen underskirt was worn, over which a woolen cloak was wrapped around. They also wore a linen headdress with a headband to keep it in place.

In the later period, women used to wear a woolen dress with fur-trimmed hem. The dress was belted at the waist. Fine expensive linen was used to make her headdress.

2. Peasants:

In the early middle ages, they wore a woolen dress over a woolen underskirt. Along with this, shoes were worn and a cowl too, to protect her head and shoulders.

In the later period, same combination was prevalent. Moreover, a linen headdress also became popular.

Medieval Fashion gradually developed into shorter clothing for men and tighter clothing for women.

References:

1. zeesonlinespace.net, (2014). History Of Fashion – Medieval. [online] Available at: http://fashionhistory.zeesonlinespace.net/medieval.html [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].
2. com, (2014). Medieval Life – Clothing. [online] Available at: http://www.historyonthenet.com/medieval_life/clothing.htm [Accessed 21 Oct. 2014].
3. Medieval-life-and-times.info, (2014). Medieval Clothing. [online] Available at: http://www.medieval-life-and-times.info/medieval-clothing/ [Accessed 21 Oct. 2014].
4. org, (2014). Middle Ages Art. [online] Available at: http://www.lordsandladies.org/middle-ages-art.htm [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].
5. net, (2014). Medieval Art and Art History. [online] Available at: http://www.arthistory.net/artstyles/medievalart/medievalart1.html [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].
6. Wikipedia, (2014). Medieval art. [online] Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medieval_art [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].
7. Alberge, D. (2013).East Anglian rood screens decaying as churches struggle for funds. [online] the Guardian. Available at: http://www.theguardian.com/culture/2013/dec/27/east-anglian-rood-screens-decay [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
8. Encyclopedia Britannica, (2014).mosaic (art) :: Medieval mosaics in western Europe. [online] Available at: http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/393310/mosaic/74117/Medieval-mosaics-in-western-Europe [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
9. Mail Online, (2014).Holland Art Cities and how the Netherlands became one giant art gallery!. [online] Available at: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-1173262/Holland-Art-Cities-Netherlands-giant-art-gallery.html [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
10. org, (2014).Pieta (Vesperbild) [Bohemian] (2001.78) | Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History | The Metropolitan Museum of Art. [online] Available at: http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/works-of-art/2001.78 [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
11. it, (2014).Rome Tours, Rome Sightseeing Tours, The Christian Catacombsof Rome. [online] Available at: https://www.travel.it/roma/hotelpanamagarden/en/hotel-rome-tour-4.html [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
12. Wikipedia, (2014).Ravenna. [online] Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ravenna#mediaviewer/File:Meister_von_San_Vitale_in_Ravenna.jpg [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
13. co.uk, (2014).Collecting Sculpture in Early Modern Europe by Nicholas Penny – Yale University Press. [online] Available at: http://yalebooks.co.uk/display.asp?K=9780300121605# [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
14. com, (2014). Africa History And Photo Gallery. [online] Available at: http://www.reunionblackfamily.com/apps/photos/photo?photoid=154390036 [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
15. Birthday in a Box, (2014). Mens Renaissance Costumes For Any Costume Party At Birthday In A Box. [online] Available at: http://www.birthdayinabox.com/costumes/mens-costumes/renaissance.html [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
16. English-online.at, (2014). Life in the Middle Ages | Clothing | Food | Health. [online] Available at: http://www.english-online.at/history/middle-ages/life-in-the-middle-ages.htm [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
17. History of Costume, (2011). Medieval Movies…and their Accuracy. [online] Available at: https://historyofeuropeanfashion.wordpress.com/2011/12/29/medieval-movies-and-their-accuracy/ [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
18. blogspot.in, (2011). All Things Historical Fiction: Fashion Throughout History (12th – 19th) Centuries. [online] Available at: http://allthingshistoricalfiction.blogspot.in/2011/05/fashion-throughout-history-12th-19th.html [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].

ART IN MIDDLE AGES:

The medieval period began probably around 300 AD (when the Roman Empire fell) and ended around 1400 AD (when the period of Renaissance started). A large number of works in different mediums were prevalent in those times including sculptures, ceramic art, illuminated manuscripts, panel paintings, embroidery and tapestry art, stained glass, mosaics, fresco, metal work and engravings.

In the Early Middle Ages, the prevalent style of art was known as Byzantine Art. And the period was known as Dark ages. The drivers of this period were the authoritative people of the Eastern Orthodox Church. They financed most of the art works produced. Some significant works were very rare and were super costly. They were associated with the churches or monasteries, secular elites. During this period, decorative art such as enamel carving, embroidery were of much higher value than the usual paintings and monumental structures. Roman catacombs or burial crypts are those places where the oldest remains of Christian art have been found.

Public appreciation was the main purpose of creating artwork by the middle ages artists. They used classical themes at times. Like Christian scenery was depicted through Roman mosaics made of small pieces. Initially, these mosaics were made in muted colors but later the artists began using vibrant colors too.

The manuscripts during this time had luxuriously illuminated book-covers. Precious metals, ivory and gold adorned them. Even gold was in use very often. Churches, palaces, personal jewelry, mosaic backgrounds or miniatures in manuscripts or panel paintings were some of the things on which gold was found.

Summing up, a few characteristics of the Byzantine art were as follows:

1. Art inspired by religion
2. Artists were the members of religious houses like monasteries
3. Sculptures were not prevalent
4. Sombre tones were preferred
5. There was no perspective in art, it was one dimensional
6. Figures were usually front facing
7. Realism was never portrayed
8. Shadows were not made in any of the art form

FASHION IN MIDDLE AGES

Clothing during this period was influenced by the authorities. It reflected the social status of a person. Moreover, only the royal class could wear the fashionable attires prevalent in those times, ordinary people were not allowed to do so. Mostly, all the dresses were made of wool or any other thick and coarse material. These qualities gave the cloth strength and durability and were difficult to get ruined. If ruined, it was difficult to wash it.

Men’s Fashion:

Since the class of a person was the deciding factor for what clothes one would wear, two typical dresses for upper class men and the peasants is described below:

1. Wealthy Men:

In early Middle Ages, a woolen tunic, belted at the waist, with embroidery at sleeves and hem was common among men. Over this, a woolen cloak was also worn which was fastened with a brooch.

In later period, velvet gown was in with a fur-trimmed hem. It was worn over a black padded shirt which had gold embroidery on it. In was short in length so they had to wear stockings to cover their legs. A hat was also worn to reflect their wealth and power in the society.

2. Peasants:

Clothing of peasants or the lower class was always very basic and practical. In early middle Ages, they wore a short tunic over a short trouser. The tunic was as usual belted at the waist. A woolen cowl was also common and over it, a hat was also worn. They used to wear boots too.

Whereas, in the later period, instead of the trousers, stockings became more prevalent. And a woolen jacket became an addition on the tunic. They also wore a small hat.

Additionally, men used to wear colored bands on their shoes, which were tied around the ankle and enhanced the shape of the foot.

Women’s Fashion:

The Greek and the Roman women were a huge inspiration for women during the middle ages. They used to wear tight clothing to reveal the elegance of their shape. They wore 2 tunics, out of which one was longer and the other shorter. Closed pointed shoes also became popular in those times.

1. Wealthy Women:

In the early middle ages, a white linen underskirt was worn, over which a woolen cloak was wrapped around. They also wore a linen headdress with a headband to keep it in place.

In the later period, women used to wear a woolen dress with fur-trimmed hem. The dress was belted at the waist. Fine expensive linen was used to make her headdress.

2. Peasants:

In the early middle ages, they wore a woolen dress over a woolen underskirt. Along with this, shoes were worn and a cowl too, to protect her head and shoulders.

In the later period, same combination was prevalent. Moreover, a linen headdress also became popular.

Medieval Fashion gradually developed into shorter clothing for men and tighter clothing for women.

References:

1. zeesonlinespace.net, (2014). History Of Fashion – Medieval. [online] Available at: http://fashionhistory.zeesonlinespace.net/medieval.html [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].
2. com, (2014). Medieval Life – Clothing. [online] Available at: http://www.historyonthenet.com/medieval_life/clothing.htm [Accessed 21 Oct. 2014].
3. Medieval-life-and-times.info, (2014). Medieval Clothing. [online] Available at: http://www.medieval-life-and-times.info/medieval-clothing/ [Accessed 21 Oct. 2014].
4. org, (2014). Middle Ages Art. [online] Available at: http://www.lordsandladies.org/middle-ages-art.htm [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].
5. net, (2014). Medieval Art and Art History. [online] Available at: http://www.arthistory.net/artstyles/medievalart/medievalart1.html [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].
6. Wikipedia, (2014). Medieval art. [online] Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medieval_art [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].
7. Alberge, D. (2013).East Anglian rood screens decaying as churches struggle for funds. [online] the Guardian. Available at: http://www.theguardian.com/culture/2013/dec/27/east-anglian-rood-screens-decay [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
8. Encyclopedia Britannica, (2014).mosaic (art) :: Medieval mosaics in western Europe. [online] Available at: http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/393310/mosaic/74117/Medieval-mosaics-in-western-Europe [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
9. Mail Online, (2014).Holland Art Cities and how the Netherlands became one giant art gallery!. [online] Available at: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-1173262/Holland-Art-Cities-Netherlands-giant-art-gallery.html [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
10. org, (2014).Pieta (Vesperbild) [Bohemian] (2001.78) | Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History | The Metropolitan Museum of Art. [online] Available at: http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/works-of-art/2001.78 [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
11. it, (2014).Rome Tours, Rome Sightseeing Tours, The Christian Catacombsof Rome. [online] Available at: https://www.travel.it/roma/hotelpanamagarden/en/hotel-rome-tour-4.html [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
12. Wikipedia, (2014).Ravenna. [online] Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ravenna#mediaviewer/File:Meister_von_San_Vitale_in_Ravenna.jpg [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
13. co.uk, (2014).Collecting Sculpture in Early Modern Europe by Nicholas Penny – Yale University Press. [online] Available at: http://yalebooks.co.uk/display.asp?K=9780300121605# [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
14. com, (2014). Africa History And Photo Gallery. [online] Available at: http://www.reunionblackfamily.com/apps/photos/photo?photoid=154390036 [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
15. Birthday in a Box, (2014). Mens Renaissance Costumes For Any Costume Party At Birthday In A Box. [online] Available at: http://www.birthdayinabox.com/costumes/mens-costumes/renaissance.html [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
16. English-online.at, (2014). Life in the Middle Ages | Clothing | Food | Health. [online] Available at: http://www.english-online.at/history/middle-ages/life-in-the-middle-ages.htm [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
17. History of Costume, (2011). Medieval Movies…and their Accuracy. [online] Available at: https://historyofeuropeanfashion.wordpress.com/2011/12/29/medieval-movies-and-their-accuracy/ [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].
18. blogspot.in, (2011). All Things Historical Fiction: Fashion Throughout History (12th – 19th) Centuries. [online] Available at: http://allthingshistoricalfiction.blogspot.in/2011/05/fashion-throughout-history-12th-19th.html [Accessed 27 Nov. 2014].

FASHION AND ART IN ANCIENT ROMAN TIMES

FASHION:

1. Men-

Tunica and Toga were the two main garments worn by the Roman men. A short woolen undergarment with short sleeves was known as Tunica, while toga was a garment that was worn mostly for display.

Toga was a huge piece of cloth (So it was expensive too). It was worn on special occasions like peaceful endeavors and only by the actual citizens. In later times, when Roman traditions started getting influenced by other cultures, tunic, which was more comfortable than the toga and covered by a cloak called lacerna, became a common dress for men. Often people were told what color of toga they could wear. Embroidery on togas came into being later but people didn’t accept this change.

Rich class men used white wool or expensive linen or even silk as the fabric for tunic whereas the poor people wore whatever was easily available. At times, men wore belt around their waist hold the tunic up.

Roman Men Clothing

2. Women-

Tunic was popular among women too, just like in men. Inspired by the Greek Fashion, peplos was one such garment. It was made of two rectangular pieces of cloth joined together and ultimately it formed a sleeveless dress. And the other tunic was somewhat like the Greek Chiton. Chiton too was made by joining two wide pieces of cloth. Belt was used at different places to give the garment the look of different styles and fits. Unlike peplos, chiton had sleeves. Various colors and fabrics were used to different between people belonging to a particular social status and wealth.

3. Footwear-

There were no major rules for wearing footwear in Roman times. At home, they used to wear Calceus. It had straps and was worn like a sandal. The straps were fixed to a leather or a cork base. To cover the whole foot, they used to wear Soleae. Footwear too was worn according to the status of that person in the society. The differentiation was again made in the colors and materials. Mostly, leather was used to make the shoes and sandals which could also be dyed.

Footwear prevalent in Ancient Rome

ART:

The major works of art in Roman times consisted of paintings, music, architecture, sculpture. Some minor forms included metal work, gem engravings, ivory engravings and glass. Though the ancient Roman artists relied on Greek influences all the time, a recent study indicates that they were also inspired from Etrsucan, native Italic and even Egyptian visual culture.

1. Paintings-

Landscape paintings were introduced by the Romans. In the Roman Empire, there was a huge demand for panel paintings, large and small scale murals. The murals were made on the inside walls of a room. They gave an illusion of depth to make the room seem larger than it is. One thing in which they were very proficient was the ‘triumphal’ history paintings. Some Roman paintings that have survived belong to Pompeii and Herculaneum. The Roman artists were very skilled in the use of perspective, light and shade.

   

  Fresco Villa dei Misteri Pompeii       Roman Slave Market Painting

2. Architecture

The Roman Architecture is one of the finest architectures of the world and the greatest contribution to the history of art. In the republic times, round temple and the curved arch was introduced. Whereas, after the millennium, urban buildings were initiated by the architects. Strong and low-cost materials like concrete and bricks were mostly used by them. Structures like Pantheon and the Colosseum were made on the basis of the arch and dome developed by them. Though the arches were invented by the Greeks, they were not used much in their architecture. So the Romans mastered the technique of making multiple arches or vaults. Vaulted ceilings called dome were also developed later. Extensive concrete was used in the construction of domes and the combination of the dome and concrete was known as ‘Roman Architectural Revolution’. The Roman Architecture was so perfect that later Italian Renaissance was inspired by the Roman buildings.

Roman Colosseum

                         Arches                                                     Pantheon

3. Sculpture

Sculptures were built by Romans to communicate the glory and power of the empire to the general public. The facial expressions, mood and pose of the statues were very formal and straight-face. To enhance the architecture, sculptures were executed. Columns were constructed to decorate the buildings and the decorations were inspired by Greek styles. Though for everything Romans were influenced by Greeks but the portraits they constructed were their original. The way they depicted their gods, emperors and other public was absolutely unknown to the Greeks. Roman portraiture included characteristics like double chin, thinning hair and crooked noses.

              Portraiture                            Sculpture

4. Music

Many public or private events were held from time to time like parades, dinners and maneuvers, where music was always played. In fact, it was an important part of the daily routine. Modern music that we know of today has no connection with the music which was played in those times. Instruments like Tuba, Cornu, Aulos, Askaules, Flute, Panpipes, Lyre, Lute, Cithara, Timpani, Aulos, Auloi, Drums, Hydraulis and the Sistrum were played in the Roman times.

Musical Instruments

REFERENCES:

1. Unrv.com, (2014). Ancient Roman Clothing. [online] Available at: http://www.unrv.com/culture/ancient-roman-clothing.php [Accessed 2 Sep. 2014].

2. Historyonthenet.com, (2014). The Romans – Clothing. [online] Available at: http://www.historyonthenet.com/romans/clothing.htm [Accessed 2 Sep. 2014].

3. Wikipedia, (2014). Roman art. [online] Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_art [Accessed 24 Oct. 2014].

4. Wikipedia, (2014). Culture of ancient Rome. [online] Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_of_ancient_Rome#The_Arts [Accessed 24 Oct. 2014].

5. Visual-arts-cork.com, (2014). Roman Art: Origins, History, Types, Characteristics. [online] Available at: http://www.visual-arts-cork.com/roman-art.htm#architecture [Accessed 24 Oct. 2014].

6. Scholastic.com, (2014). Ancient Roman Art and Architecture | Scholastic ART | Scholastic.com. [online] Available at: http://www.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=3753873 [Accessed 24 Oct. 2014].

7. Visual-arts-cork.com, (2014). Roman Art: Origins, History, Types, Characteristics. [online] Available at: http://www.visual-arts-cork.com/roman-art.htm#sculpture [Accessed 24 Oct. 2014].

8. Scholastic.com, (2014). Ancient Roman Art and Architecture | Scholastic ART | Scholastic.com. [online] Available at: http://www.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=3753873 [Accessed 24 Oct. 2014].

9. Visual-arts-cork.com, (2014). Roman Art: Origins, History, Types, Characteristics. [online] Available at: http://www.visual-arts-cork.com/roman-art.htm#painting [Accessed 24 Oct. 2014].

IMAGES-

1. Pinterest, (2014). Inspirationen. [online] Available at: http://www.pinterest.com/pin/400046379372632721/ [Accessed 31 Oct. 2014].

2. Tweedlandthegentlemansclub.blogspot.in, (2011). “Tweedland” The Gentlemen’s club: Roman Fashion. [online] Available at: http://tweedlandthegentlemansclub.blogspot.in/2011/09/roman-fashion.html [Accessed 31 Oct. 2014].

3. Costume and Fashion History, (2013). Ancient Roman costumes. Nobility women and female slave.. [online] Available at: http://world4.eu/ancient-roman-costumes/ [Accessed 31 Oct. 2014].

4. paintingandframe.com, (2014). Jean Leon Gerome A Roman Slave Market painting – A Roman Slave Market print for sale. [online] Available at: http://paintingandframe.com/prints/jean_leon_gerome_a_roman_slave_market-4551.html [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].

5. Commons.wikimedia.org, (2014). File:Roman fresco Villa dei Misteri Pompeii 004.jpg – Wikimedia Commons. [online] Available at: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Roman_fresco_Villa_dei_Misteri_Pompeii_004.jpg [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].

6. Essential-humanities.net, (2014). Roman Architecture | Essential Humanities. [online] Available at: http://www.essential-humanities.net/western-art/architecture/roman/ [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].

7. History.com, (2014). Roman Architecture and Engineering. [online] Available at: http://www.history.com/photos/roman-architecture-and-engineering/photo1 [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].

8. Cartwright, M. (2014). Pantheon. [online] Ancient History Encyclopedia. Available at: http://www.ancient.eu/Pantheon/ [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].

9. Metmuseum.org, (2014). Roman Copies of Greek Statues | Thematic Essay | Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History | The Metropolitan Museum of Art. [online] Available at: http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/rogr/hd_rogr.htm [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].

10. Metmuseum.org, (2014). Roman Portrait Sculpture: Republican through Constantinian | Thematic Essay | Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History | The Metropolitan Museum of Art. [online] Available at: http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/ropo/hd_ropo.htm [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].

11. Crystalinks.com, (2014). Music in Ancient Rome – Crystalinks. [online] Available at: http://www.crystalinks.com/romemusic.html [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].

12. Umich.edu, (2014). Music in the Greek and Roman World. [online] Available at: http://www.umich.edu/~kelseydb/Exhibits/MIRE/Introduction/GreekRoman/GreekRoman.html [Accessed 1 Nov. 2014].

History Of Art and Fashion in Ancient Greece

ART AND ARCHITECTURE:

Most of the information about the ancient Greek art is derived from the stone and clay objects that have survived all these years. Materials like stone, marble and limestone were abundantly found in Greece, which were used to make various sculptures. Sometimes, clay was also used but those ones have not been able to survive because they got broke.

Sculptures are an important source of stories about Greek gods, heroes, events and mythical creatures. Most of the classical statues and sculptures have not survived till today because the stone ones broke and the metal ones were melted to be re-used. As compared to the earlier periods, the statues of people looked more natural with realistic looking face expressions.

                                       

Pottery by the Greeks was the most useful art forms produced by the craftsmen. Gods and Goddesses were given terracotta figures as offerings. They were buried with the dead most of the times and were also presented as toys to children. Clay pots, jars and vases were in use for various purposes, which were painted with religious and mythological scenes.

Besides being the biggest and the most beautiful, the Greek temples also served a political purpose because they were built in remembrance of civic power and their success in wars. Three architectural orders were devised by the Greeks, called the Doric, Ionic and Corinthian.

Doric style is very sturdy but its top is plain. Mainland Greece and southern colonies of Italy and Sicily used such style of architecture. In Ionic, the structure is thin and elegant; a scroll like design is etched on its capital. This style is mostly found in eastern Greece and its islands. The Corinthian style is more popular in roman architecture rather than Greek. Acanthus leaves have been used to decorate its capital.

FASHION:

Greek paintings and sculptures give us an insight into the clothing and fashion of Ancient Greece. Homemade clothing was prevalent in Ancient Greece and the same type of fabric was used for clothing as well as other purposes. Their clothing had detailed designs and bold colors.

The various types of garments available at that time were the following-

1. Tunic-
2. Peplos- A large rectangular piece of fabric (usually wool). It was used to wrap around the body and was stuck at the shoulders with a pin.
3. Chiton- Chiton was usually made of linen. It was very long and wide enough to give space for sleeves. Peplos and chiton both were very long fabrics which made a pouch at the waist called kolpos
4. Cloak (Himation)- a piece of cloth draped diagonally over one shoulder or symmetrically over both shoulders like a stole.
5. Exomis- A shorter chiton, fastened at the left shoulder
6. Epiblema- a shawl
7. Chlamys- short cloak
8. Petasos- broad-brimmed hat

MEN-

They wore a shorter chiton or knee-length, as compared to the one worn by women. Exomis was worn during physical exercise, horse-riding or labour work. Himation was also carried by the Greek men. For riding, men used to wear chlamys. They also wore petasos hat.

WOMEN-

Peplos or chiton was teamed up with an epiblema sometimes. On rare occasions, they wore a flat-brimmed petasos with a high crown.

In general, Greeks wore loose-fitted clothing instead of the fitted one, which was worn by the barbarian Greeks. Mostly all the garments worn by the people were sleeveless. Ankle-length dresses were popular among women, whereas, men’s clothing was shorter. Common masses wore plain clothes and the rich people wore dyed clothes.

FOOTWEAR-

When people were inside their home, they were barefoot. But when they stepped out, they wore sandals, slippers, soft shoes, or boots.

JEWELRY-

Archaeological excavations reveal that jewelry was popular in ancient Greece. Earrings, bracelets and necklaces were popular among women. Though men also used to wear such jewelry but this trend didn’t last long.

          

HAIR AND MAKEUP-

In early times, men had short hair and grew beards and women’s hair were braided and sometimes curled. But in later period, for men, beards went out of style and women began tying up their hair or made a bun. In contrast, women wore long hair but slave women wore short hair.

Rich women mostly stayed at home. They preferred pale skin, which was a sign of prestige for them. To lighten their complexion, they applied chalk and sometimes white lead which was toxic. As in other cultures, red powder was applied on cheeks to highlight them.

SOURCES:

1. Historylink101.com, (2014).Fashion in Ancient Greece. [online] Available at: http://historylink101.com/2/greece3/fashion.htm [Accessed 2 Sep. 2014].
2. Ancientgreece.com, (2014).Ancient Greek Clothing. [online] Available at: http://www.ancientgreece.com/s/Clothing/ [Accessed 2 Sep. 2014].
3. Ancientgreece.com, (2014). Ancient Greece – Art and Architecture, Sculpture, Pottery and Greek Temples. [online] Available at: http://www.ancientgreece.com/s/Art/ [Accessed 3 Oct. 2014].
4. Ancientgreece.com, (2014). Sculpture and Art in Ancient Greece. [online] Available at: http://www.ancientgreece.com/s/Sculpture/ [Accessed 3 Oct. 2014].
5. History.com, (2014). Ancient Greek Art – Ancient History – HISTORY.com. [online] Available at: http://www.history.com/topics/ancient-history/ancient-greek-art [Accessed 3 Oct. 2014].

IMAGES:

www.ancientgreece.com

www.pinterest.com

www.mlahanas.de

www.greek-islands.us

www.fashion-era.com

www.bible-researcher.com

www.bhousedesain.com

www.histovirus.com

www.metmuseum.org

HISTORY OF ART AND FASHION IN ANCIENT EGYPT

Paintings and writings have been the major sources of information about any ancient society or culture. In the context of Egypt, following conclusions have been derived from the art, sculptures, paintings and written records of the Egyptian people.

HISTORY OF ART-

Ancient Egyptian art originated in the civilization of Nile Valley around 5000 years ago. It had been very symbolic. All the technique of art was same throughout most of the times which may mean that there was no influence from the outside region.

Religion was the major influence for artists and most of the paintings and sculptures were meant for the Pharaohs to help them in afterlife. Such paintings depicted scenes in which the buried person was happy even after his death. Pharaohs were given so much importance because they were considered as gods. Temples was one of the places where the artists used to work. They made huge wall paintings and statues of gods.

     

Some of the famous sculptures of Egyptian craftsmen were the Statue of Ramses II (each over 60 feet tall) and The Sphinx at Giza (over 240 feet tall). Sometimes small statues were also made of materials like ivory, alabaster, limestone, basalt, wood gilded gold and solid gold too.

 

HIEROGLYPHS-

A hieroglyph consists of pictures and symbols, to indicate something. Some were meaningful independently, some had multiple meanings, and some were used in combinations. Sometimes, they were also used phonetically. They were written in 3 different styles- right to left, left to right and top to bottom. Emergence of other scripts was responsible for the decline of hieroglyphic script. They had a very specific function of ensuring that gods were supplicated and all the rituals were performed for eternity.

HISTORY OF FASHION-

MATERIAL:

Egyptians used linen for their clothes. Priests and pharaohs used animal skins at times, like goat’s hair and sheep’s wool. During 1^st century AD, cotton came into use and during 7^th century AD, silk came into use. At times, coarse texture was also preferred in clothing.

According to some source, their technique of producing clothing was meant to provide comfort in dry climate.

CUTS AND LENGTHS:

Wrap-around clothing was popular in Egypt, like kilts, skirts, cloaks and shawls. Very short kilts and skirts were worn by people that just covered their hips. During the period of Old Kingdom, short skirts were worn, during Middle Kingdom, calf-length was worn and during the New Kingdom, pleated garments became popular. Loin clothes, bag tunics and dresses were not tailored for a particular person, they were just sewn together.

MEN & WOMEN:

Top quality sheer linen was used by the rich class men in the society. They wore decorated clothes, and even wore headgears and a lot of jewelry. Aprons which were pieces of cloth attached around the waist through belt or band were also prevalent.

Long dresses made of fine transparent linen were worn by Egyptian women. The dresses had one or two shoulder straps also. During the New Kingdom period, pleated and draped dresses came into use. And jewellery and headgears were of course popular among women too.

CHILDREN:

Children wore the same dresses as adults according to their gender. However, they didn’t wear any cloth until the age of 6 years.

FOOTWEAR:

People were barefoot most of the times but they wore sandals on various occasions or when they were afraid that they may get hurt. The rich people wore leather sandals and poor people wore sandals made of palm fiber or papyrus.

JEWELERY:

One strange reason of wearing jewellery was to attract god towards them, apart from the usual one of showing off one’s wealth. Main items of jewellery were rings, earrings, necklaces, decorated buttons, neck collars and pendants. Rich people wore gold and precious stones unlike the poor who could just afford pottery beads, sometimes colored.

HAIR & MAKEUP:Short hair were acceptable among the general masses. In children, girls made pigtails and boys shaved off their heads.

Wigs (made of sheep wool or human hair) were a very essential accessory worn by everyone including both men and women. They were worn for both the purposes of protection from heat or decoration. Mostly, they were kept for some special get together, that too in special boxes like today. They also wore hair extensions.

Both men and women used to apply makeup on their face. Henna dye was used to color lips and nails, black eyeliners were also applied to line the eyes and darken the eyelashes and eyebrows. Sometimes, powdered minerals were used to make eye shadows of green and blue colors.

 

Sources-

1. Gill, N. (2014). What Clothing Did the Ancient Egyptians Wear?. [online] About. Available at: http://ancienthistory.about.com/od/egyptwomen/f/102709EgyptianClothing.htm [Accessed 1 Sep. 2014].

2. Historyonthenet.com, (2014). The Egyptians – Clothing. [online] Available at: http://www.historyonthenet.com/egyptians/clothing.htm [Accessed 1 Sep. 2014].

3. Reshafim.org.il, (2014). Ancient Egypt: Clothing. [online] Available at: http://www.reshafim.org.il/ad/egypt/timelines/topics/clothing.htm [Accessed 1 Sep. 2014].

4. Fashionhistory.zeesonlinespace.net, (2014). History Of Fashion – Egypt. [online] Available at: http://fashionhistory.zeesonlinespace.net/egypt.html [Accessed 1 Sep. 2014].

5. Ducksters.com, (2014). History: Ancient Egyptian Art for Kids. [online] Available at: http://www.ducksters.com/history/art/ancient_egyptian_art.php [Accessed 2 Oct. 2014].

6. Crystalinks.com, (2014). Ancient Egyptian Art, Painting, Sculpture – Crystalinks. [online] Available at: http://www.crystalinks.com/egyptart.html [Accessed 2 Oct. 2014].

7. White, D. (2010). Art in ancient Egypt – Australian Museum. [online] Australianmuseum.net.au. Available at: http://australianmuseum.net.au/Art-in-ancient-Egypt [Accessed 2 Oct. 2014].

Image Sources-

http://www.alpha-qing.com/2013/03/influence-on-fashion-ancient-egypt.html

http://myegypt.com.au/statues/6552.html

http://students.um.edu.mt/sabe0012/egypt_a_culture.htm

http://www.ancientegyptianfacts.com/ancient-egyptian-women-pictures.html

http://www.egyking.info/2013/06/ancient-egyptian-sandals.html

http://www.artres.com

http://historylink101.com/n/egypt_1/a-jewelry.htm

http://www.ancientegyptianfacts.com/ancient-egyptian-eye-makeup.html

http://www.abbawigs.com/Pages/WigHistory.aspx

http://www.experience-ancient-egypt.com/ancient-egyptian-art.html

http://ancientegyptworld.wordpress.com/2011/07/18/the-couples-in-ancient-egyptian-art/

https://www.travelblog.org/Photos/1476414

http://www.mojoii.com/product/?id=66

ART AND FASHION IN PREHISTORIC THAILAND

INTRODUCTION TO PREHISTORIC THAILAND:

Some 10, 00,000 years ago, fossils and stone tools found in the northern and western Thailand proved the existence of the prehistoric population in this region. A Homo erectus fossil was found at an archaeological site in Lampang between 10, 00,000- 5, 00,000 years. Numerous stone tools and cave paintings were discovered, 10,000 years ago, in the regions of Kanchanaburi, Lopburi, Ubon Ratchathani, and Nakhon Si Thammarat.

ART:

Humans make art for many reasons with whatever techniques they can think of and whatever material is available near them. In Ancient Thailand, art was produced not for mere acknowledgement but many religious practices had been the artist’s inspiration. A variety of tools and artifacts made with different materials have been discovered in prehistoric regions of Thailand including bronze and iron tools, decorative pottery, rock paintings, red painted pottery, bronze bracelets, rings, anklets, wires, rods, spearheads, axes, blades, hooks, etc.

FASHION:

According to Christophe Munier, author of Sacred Rocks and Buddhist Caves in Thailand, during 2000-500 BC, when people led a much developed lifestyle, such as a man digging with a hoe and rice cultivation, people probably wore loin clothes, a headgear, cloth belts, ornaments such as feathers, glass beads, earthenware amulets, bronze bangles and bracelets. Natural fibers may have been used to make clothes and prints might have been made using rollers.

1. ROCK/CAVE PAINTINGS

The painting depicts some figures with tools in their hands, probably going to hunt some animal. An animal shaped like a dog is shown following them. It may be a domesticated animal helping the people in their hunting process. The red hue is used as usual, maybe because it was easily accessible and also it is a symbol of blood.

2. HAND PRINTS IN DETAIL

At some places, hand prints have been found on the rocks or caves. It may depict that the people used to mark their accomplishments after a successful hunt. After the hunt, they would have marked the places with their handprints.

3. CERAMIC BOWL

This bowl looks like it was used for architectural decorations and not for the conventional uses. It is painted beautifully with different shades of earth and designs of swirls. The finishing given to it is very professional. Overall it looks like a highly accomplished work by a very talented potter.

4. WATER BUFFALO

Making a sculpture of an animal may mean that it had an important place in their livelihood. The buffalo might be one of those animals which helped the people in travelling from one place to the other. The whole structure of the buffalo is beautifully captured. The opening on the top of the buffalo may be made to keep the sculpture as a keepsake box. Another significance might be that the buffalo was hunted regularly for its horns or meat or skin.

5. LOG COFFIN

Log coffins were the burial places for the ancient people. As the name suggests, they were made in the wood logs once they dried up. In the above picture, some remains are still there which look like some real life objects. So it may be possible that the people believed in the afterlife and buried some objects with the deceased.