Discusses the Italian interpretation of Rococo architecture and examines the most significant Rococo structures in Italy.
Historical Context: Understanding the political, economic, and social factors that led to the development of Rococo architecture in Italy.
Characteristics of Rococo Architecture: Explores the unique features of Rococo architecture such as asymmetry, ornamentation, and the use of pastel colors.
Rococo in Italy: Examines the key architects and buildings associated with Rococo architecture in Italy, including the Palazzo Reale in Naples and the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan.
Baroque and Rococo: Explores the relationship between Baroque and Rococo architecture in Italy, tracing the evolution of these styles over time.
Rococo Interiors: Examines the interior decoration of Rococo buildings, including the use of textiles, mirrors, and glass.
Rococo Sculpture: Explores the sculptural elements of Rococo architecture in Italy, including the use of plaster and stucco.
Rococo Gardens: Examines the landscaping and design of Rococo gardens in Italy, including the use of water features, topiary, and fountains.
Rococo Revival: Examines the renewed interest in Rococo architecture in the 19th and 20th centuries, including how this style influenced the Art Nouveau movement.
Critiques of Rococo: Explores the criticisms of Rococo architecture, including charges that it was overly ornate and frivolous.
Rococo and Politics: Examines how Rococo architecture in Italy was used to convey messages about power, wealth, and status.
Villa Cavriani in Mantua: The villa was built during the 18th century and features Rococo furnishings, painted frescoes, and a terraced garden with fountains and marble statues. The villa's façade is decorated with floral motifs and statues, and the interior is opulently decorated with stucco moldings, frescoes, and gilded decoration.
Royal Palace of Caserta in Campania: Although construction of the palace began in the 1750s, it was heavily influenced by the Rococo style. The palace features extensive decoration and ornamentation in stucco, fresco, and marble.
Teatro alla Scala in Milan: The opera house was built in the late 18th century in a transitional style between Rococo and neoclassicism. Its interior is characterized by lavish ornamentation and decoration, while its exterior is more restrained and classical in style.
Palazzo Carignano in Turin: The palace was built in the mid-18th century and features a façade decorated with Rococo-style stucco work. The interior of the palace is also characterized by lavish decoration and furnishings.