Mannerism was an artistic style that emerged in Italy between the 1520s and 1590s. It developed as a reaction against the perfection and restraint of High Renaissance art, allowing artists more freedom of expression. Mannerist works are characterized by exaggerated figures, elaborate decoration, and artificial color schemes. Notable Mannerist artists included Parmigianino, known for works like "Madonna with the long neck" and "The Convex Mirror," as well as Pontormo's "The Deposition" and works by El Greco and Arcimboldo that featured stretched, twisted forms.

1. MANNERISM ART
Renaissance Mannerism is an
artistic style that
predominated in
Italy from the end
of the High
Renaissance in
the 1520s to the
beginnings of the
Baroque style
around 1590.

2. Mannerism was the term that referred to painting
“in the manor of”. It is named after maniera, an
Italian term for “style” or “manner,” and refers to a
stylized, exaggerated approach to painting and
sculpture. Mannerism art emerged due to the
political upheaval and the lose of great artists and
patrons. Mannerist artists wanted a chance to
express themselves fully without the constraints of
High Renaissance art and its perfection.

3. Characteristics of Mannerism Art
Exaggerated Figures
Elaborate Decoration
Artificial Color
employed artificial—and often garish—tones
-incorporate patterns into their work
-abundance of decorative elements
stretched and twisted forms were likely employed
to suggest movement and heighten drama

4. Notable Artists and Masterpieces
“Madonna with the long neck”
by Parmigianino
(1534-1540)
“The Convex Mirror”
by Parmigianino
1542

5. Notable Artists and Masterpieces
“The Deposition”
by Pontormo
(1526-1528)
“The Holy Trinity”
by El Greco
(1577-1579)
“Spring”
by Giuseppe Arcimboldo
(1573)