2.8: Conclusion

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During the 17^th century, the different European countries engaged in warfare about territory and religion, but by the end of the century, the concept of Christendom brought a type of unity. Intellectual ideas proliferated, and monarchies consolidated local territories while wars and pestilence decreased populations. Trade was expanded throughout the world facilitated by trading companies, new oceanic routes, and broad routes through the Ottoman Empire, opening up more trade for Asian countries. European expansionism and colonization began to upset the natural balance of the indigenous populations worldwide as the natural resources of other countries were plundered and shipped to Europe.

The most onerous circumstance of this period was the trade and exploitation of slavery as millions of Africans were purchased and sold in the foreign territories of the Americas. The Islamic world expanded into the Indian subcontinent, becoming one of the major economies. In Asia, the Ming dynasty collapsed to be replaced by the Qing dynasty, yet as China retained its open trade policies, Japan began its policy of long-lasting isolation.

European art was dramatic, the tenets of chiaroscuro dominating the visual arts, the focused light, and deep, dark shadows found in the Baroque period. Art was dominated by the requirements of the Catholic church and the newfound wealth of merchant classes. Immense religious altarpieces, demure still life, and realistic portraits were the main themes of the artists.

In China, the change from the Ming dynasty to the Qing dynasty forced artists to look inward as the world changed. Painting and calligraphy became a method of how artists could express themselves, moving from traditional to new techniques. In India, artists focused on miniature paintings recreating scenes of the ruling class’s activities. Korean folk art and the independence from Chinese influence became the inspiration.

Native American art was generally based on portable art; baskets, clothing, blankets, sculptures, and moveable architecture. Most indigenous people did not believe they owned the land and easily moved throughout a region, carrying their art.