The Rape of the Sabine Women
(detail) (1583) by Giambologna
Artists of the Mannerist School (1520-1600)
Mannerism (from the 'maniera' meaning simply style or stylishness) was essentially a reaction to the heavily stated but controlled idealism in the artworks of the High Renaissance. It also reflected the political turbulence of the period. For example, the dramatic writhing style visible in Michelangelo's Last Judgement fresco on the wall of the Sistine Chapel (1535-41) in Rome, perfectly captured the anguish of the sack of the city by a German mercenary army in 1527. Giambologna's dramatic and emotional sculpture also perfectly fits the mood of the era.
See below for a chronological list of Old Masters and other artists of the Mannerism movement. Unless otherwise indicated, the individuals listed are Italian and their speciality is fine art painting.
