Non-Western European Art

The historical significance of the French Impressionist movement and artists such as Leonardo da Vinci often means that the study of Eastern European art is forsaken for that of its Western counterpart. But Eastern European art is equally as multifaceted and compelling. Its history spans thousands of years and its effect can still be observed in the artistic expression of the modern era.

The Vikings (780-1100)

One of the most enduring symbols of the Viking warrior is that of his helmet, seen adorning a stone statue.

Although the legacy of the Vikings is one of war and conquest, these early inhabitants of Eastern Europe were skilled craftsmen. They used wood and different types of metal to create weapons, jewelry and ships adorned with intricate carvings.

The Mongol Ghanates (1450-1600)

The immense Mongolian Empire, overseen most notably by the conqueror Genghis Khan, included many territories that now comprise modern day Eastern-Europe. Items now considered to be works of art were then simple and functional parts of everyday life. Two such items are "Mongol passport," which was a metal plaque with iron inlay that allowed individuals to travel back and forth within the empire, and gold saddles often used by high-ranking officials.

The Western-European Influence (1600-1800)

Columns and colonnades were a large architectural component of the Baroque movement.

This time period in Eastern-Europe was most notably a period of warfare, and often the eminent artists of the day (painters, goldsmiths and others) were responsible for the meticulous construction of weapons. Because artists frequently traveled back and forth to Western-European counties including Germany and Italy, the German and Italian Baroque periods had a large influence on Eastern art. The Baroque movement involved, among other things, an embracing of classical culture and architecture, and a more emotive painting style meant to stimulate religious experience.

Eastern European Art into the 19th Century

Nationalism at the dawn of the nineteenth century sparked a large increase in the creation of Eastern-European art that celebrated its roots. The Royal Academy in Copenhagen was the home of many skilled painters who trained in order to master the methods that would allow them to create works celebrating their homeland. Although poverty and de-population later weakened Scandinavian art, Russia flourished during this epoch and by the time the 20th century arrived many Russian artists and composers were very well known throughout the world.

References

• The Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History: The Vikings
• The Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History: The Legacy of Genghis Khan
• The Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History: Eastern Europe and Scandinavia
• The Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History:Eastern Europe and Scandinavia, 1600--1800 A.D.
• The Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History: The Decoration of Arms and Armour