17th Century (1600-1699) Artifacts

Baroque art flourished during the 17th century and is known for dramatic movement, rich detail, strong contrasts of light and shadow, and emotional intensity. It influenced painting, sculpture, architecture, furniture, and decorative arts across Europe.

Wood was an essential material for 17th-century furniture, sculpture, religious art, and architecture. Skilled carvers created elaborate decoration, figures, architectural panels, and furnishings that reflected the artistic tastes and craftsmanship of the period.

China saw the fall of the Ming dynasty and rise of the Qing dynasty in 1644. In Japan, the Tokugawa shogunate established the Edo period, bringing greater political stability alongside the growth of cities, trade, art, and distinctive cultural traditions.

Religion remained one of the greatest patrons of art during the 1600s. Churches, temples, monasteries, and private worshippers commissioned paintings, sculptures, icons, ritual objects, and architecture to express faith, teach religious ideas, and inspire devotion.

Experts study materials, construction methods, artistic style, inscriptions, maker’s marks, decoration, and manufacturing techniques. Comparison with securely dated examples and surviving historical records can help narrow an object’s likely date and place of origin.