The language of art history

This course is a part of Approaches to art history, a 7-course Topic series from Khan Academy.

This course contains 6 segments:

What is contrapposto?

A brief explanation of the term "contrapposto" comparing two ancient Greek sculptures: the New York Kouros and an ancient Roman copy of the Doryphoros (or Spear Bearer) by Polykleitos. Although these particular objects may not have been known in the Renaissance, the ideas and form of contrapposto were revived in the Italian Renaissance. Speakers: Dr. Steven Zucker and Dr. Beth Harris

What is foreshortening?

Speakers: Dr. Beth Harris and Dr. Steven Zucker

What is chiaroscuro?

Speakers: Dr. Beth Harris and Dr. Steven Zucker

How one-point linear perspective works

Speakers: Dr. Steven Zucker & Dr. Beth Harris

What is atmospheric perspective?

Speakers: Dr. Steven Zucker and Dr. Beth Harris

The classical orders

The three major classical orders are Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian. The orders describe the form and decoration of Greek and later Roman columns, and continue to be widely used in architecture today. The Doric order is the simplest and shortest, with no decorative foot, vertical fluting, and a flared capital. Ionic columns are taller and thinner, with a decorative foot and scroll-shaped volutes on the capital. The most complex order is the Corinthian order, which is tall and thin and features a decorative foot, volutes and acanthus leaves on the capital.