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ARTI INSTITUE OF CHICAGO Landscape with the Ruins of Castle of England The color usage, odd balance, and setting of the painting compel the viewer to experience a mixture of feelings. The picture is very dark and gloomy especially with looming overhead clouds. The weather seems to parallel the castle’s broken stature. The singular remaining tower stands prominent in the skyline above the rolling hills and trees, yet it is still crumbling. There are subtle things, like the shepherd and flock, and the house in the distance, those add to its overall effect. You are drawn in. The artist leaves just enough of the structure so that you can imagine what the castle once was. The Old Temple Even though the piece is entitled after the main building that is presented, it seems that the people and their separate actions are the main focus. Even though the people are small in size comparison to the temple, the people are more modern in contrast to the temple which seems to be more old-fashioned. The artist uses color to show the age of the temple. In order to concentrate on the temple, the viewer must view the piece from a distance. After seeing from a distance, the viewer will notice the broken pillars, hole in the ceiling, and statues that seem to need much repair. Even with all these repelling details there still seems to be much balance. The Fountains This painting, like the above, has a subtle blend of modernity and relic. The arches and the sculptures are ancient. Yet the people are modern. The balance of color is obvious in the way the fountains are portrayed. Not like the Old Temple the piece allows the viewers to concentrate solely on the fountains at a close distance. Armida Abandoned by Rinaldo The background colors are somewhat light and subtle. This allows for the bright colors of the main characters to shine through and be emphasized. The colors are very rich and very much in balance. The most color is present in Rinaldo, who seems to be the main character. Within him there seems to be a struggle. The two soldiers are urging him to the boat, and although he seems inclined, he is still held back.
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