Mythology in art history

First, it is worth turning to the mythological art definition. This is the art of greek gods, stories on topics from religion, local mythologies, Slavic mythological art, etc. Greek myth painting was the best for us. Indeed, Greek art pieces are iconic works that have become a canon for other masters. For example, Roman sculptors used Greek mythology in art as the basis for their works. Among other subjects, which painters, graphic artists, sculptors and architects then turned to, are the images of Hercules, Zeus, Nike, Ares, Venus, Demeter, Persephone and others. A separate page of this genre is mythical creatures art. Yes, ancient artists often turned to mythical monster art. They depicted centaurs, chthonic monsters, titans, fauns and other characters. Roman mythology art was also reflected in culture. For example, we all know the beautiful sculptural works of Romulus, Remus and She-Wolf, which is also a sample of ancient mythological art.

Middle ages mythological art gave this genre a new impetus. At this time, mythology is supplanted by religion. And biblical images begin to dominate culture: Cain and Abel, the Tower of Babel, Abraham and Isaac, and others. Famous mythological art works of this period include the following: Donatello, Giotto, Leon Battista Alberti, etc. The problem is that medieval myth artwork often remained anonymous. Therefore, we know very few names of medieval masters. On the other hand, mythology and renaissance art is gaining great development. At this time, artists again turn to antiquity. The mythology and art of Ancient Greece and Rome are resurrected. Mythology modern art, in turn, was manifested in symbolism. For example, we can recall the works of von Stuck and Knopf.

Famous mythological artworks

What does mythological artwork usually depict? Usually, when we talk about mythology arts, associations with gods and goddesses art arise in our heads. Probably, the most famous examples of works of this genre relate to mythological figures’ art. Any connoisseur of art remembers these beautiful paintings depicting mythological creatures, deities, as well as animals revered in local religions. The most famous is Greek gods’ art. For example, one of the most favorite Greek mythology artworks of the public is “Spring” by Botticelli. Here he depicted many figures of Greek mythology: the god of wind Zephyr, the god of plants Flora, Venus — the goddess of love, her son Cupid, etc. However, this is not purely Greek work. This is a masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance master on the theme of ancient Greek culture.

But it is worth mentioning another famous Greek artwork. For example, the sculptures of the ancient Greek master Phidias deserve great attention. In particular, he owns one of the Seven Wonders of the World — the sculpture of Zeus (unfortunately, it has not survived). So, when we think about the myth art meaning, we understand: mythology in art has always been significant. Another example of excellent famous Greek art is the sculpture of Polycletus called “Doriphorus”. This unique mythical artwork is very well preserved. She portrays a young man full of energy. And this sculpture became an example for other masters. Therefore, we can talk about the “Polycletus Canon”.

Famous mythological artists

Let’s start with ancient art mythology. Polycletus, Phidias, and Praxiteles are among the most famous mythological creatures artists. They created sculptures that are known to this day. During the Middle Ages, mythological painters were often monks, and many names you do not know. Most often, the names that are known to us belong to the period of the late Middle Ages. Renaissance myth artists again turned to ancient images. Yes, we can mention the following artists: Leonardo da Vinci, Correggio, Michelangelo, Titian, Botticelli and others. The works of these mythological artists depict famous scenes from ancient myths, as well as gods and other characters from stories. Mythology in renaissance art is the paintings of the Sistine Chapel, the “Birth of Venus” by Botticelli and the context of the works of Leonardo da Vinci. For example, Botticelli went down in history as the most popular mythology artist. Beautiful mythological artworks, meanwhile, appeared in all times and eras. So, on the canvases of the Pre-Raphaelites and Symbolists, we again see such motifs: that is, mythology in art continues to exist.

Buy mythological artworks

In our mythological art gallery, you can explore the entire palette of works of art of this genre. On our website, you can also buy mythological artworks online. Today, collectors have a unique chance to find almost any mythological artwork for sale. Yes, you can buy copies of famous mythology art or stop at modern mythological romantic art.

Mythological Artworks for Sale