Jan Steen
Merry Company on a Terrace
Ca. 1670
Metropolitan Museum of Art

 

Attributed to the Master of the Martyrdom of St. Sebastian
Hercules and Achelous
Approx. mid-17th century
Metropolitan Museum of Art

 

Jean Cornu
Venus Giving Arms to Aeneas
1704
Metropolitan Museum of Art

 

Domenichino
The Lamentation
1603
Metropolitan Museum of Art

 

Adriaen Brouwer
The Smokers
Ca. 1636
Metropolitan Museum of Art

Something that is noteworthy within all the artworks above is the exaggerations of the postures and facials expressions of the subjects used to covey drama and strong emotions within the viewer. The way the subjects are “moving” in the works makes for well-intended illustration of theatrical drama. In addition, the use of the contrast of light and dark color brings attention to the certain parts or characters. These key components are most prominent in the chosen artworks as well as the majority of Baroque art.