ARHI132 CM - Latin American Art, 1500-1800

This course will consider the emergence of vernacular forms of art and architecture during the centuries of European rule in what is presently referred to as Latin America. An overview of the distinct geographies of these regions will be offered, and special attention will be given to the cities of South America. Fundamental questions about the role of pre-contact artistic traditions will be discussed as will be the motivating force of proselytizing among Catholic fraternal orders. Students will become familiar with the architectural monuments and urban development of Mexico City, Cuzco, Lima, Quito, and Potosí. They will also observe the rise in specifically Latin American genres of visual representation including ‘painted statues’, Inca portraiture, and castas paintings. Objects created with materials indigenous to the Americas will be given specific consideration including: feather paintings, mother of pearl inlaid furniture and objects, Talavera ware, and barniz de pasto.

Offered: Every other year

Credit: 1

Course Number: ARHI132 CM