Popular Subjects in Painting

The human need to convey on canvas one’s impressions of the surrounding world and one’s inner feelings gave birth to painting many thousands of years ago. And even now, artists draw inspiration from the grandeur of nature—depicting its beauty, as well as people, flora, and fauna. Real and fictional stories, events, and images are also reflected in masters’ works. In different eras, certain themes become especially relevant or popular, adapting to modern trends. However, there are specific motifs and plots that remain in demand throughout the history of art among artists of different cultures and times. By studying this book, you will be able to better understand the main themes, images, and storylines of world painting. You’ll learn about the origins of the self-portrait and artists’ interest in their own image; how different painters represented the Ideal Muse; the importance of colors in the works of famous masters; the role of fruits in myths and fairy tales; the formation of animalism as a genre in the 19th century; the popularity of ancient myths of love among artists; and the symbolism of images of children with card houses and women’s figures with mirrors. This book also provides the opportunity to download additional material in PDF format after purchase.