Gardens and villas are considered in their role as purveyors of the economic, social and political power of the elite, and Renaissance design theory. Examples include the Medici ville at Fiesole, Palazzo Te in Mantua, Palazzo Farnesse at Caprarola and Villa d'Este at Tivoli. A comprehensive investigation of the baroque style in painting, sculpture and architecture from its origins in Counter-Reformation Rome at the end of the Renaissance to its dissemination throughout Italy during the 17th century. The course identifies and places in context masterpieces of the baroque and considers the transformation of the baroque into what is known as the rococo at the beginning of the 19th century, briefly considering 19th and 20th century American variations on Italian baroque themes. The course also covers early medieval techniques of printed books, the impact of the printing press on the character of the books, and the potential effects of computers on the concept of book as object.
Students visit studios and local collections of manuscripts and artists' books.
An opportunity for seniors with a solid background in 200 and 300 level art history to do research on a topic of their choosing. The course requires eight meetings during the semester with the supervising instructor and a final written report of the research undertaken. For art history majors to undertake practical directed study for a minimum of three, maximum of six credits in the senior year. The practicum is planned and scheduled by students under the supervision of the Art History advisor. Students arrange for apprentice or intern positions with museums, galleries, publishing houses, and similar institutions.