Globes

Definition

Globes are three-dimensional representations of the Earth or celestial bodies, typically depicted in a spherical format. They serve not only as geographical tools but also symbolize exploration, knowledge, and the pursuit of scientific understanding. Globes are often found in still life artworks, where they reflect the intellectual pursuits of the time, emphasizing the significance of science and learning in historical contexts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Globes have been used since ancient times to depict geographical knowledge and were crucial for navigation and exploration.
2. In still life paintings, globes often represent the pursuit of knowledge and the Enlightenment ideals that emerged during the 17th and 18th centuries.
3. Globes can be made from various materials, including wood, metal, or paper, and may feature different types of maps such as political or physical representations.
4. The inclusion of globes in artwork signifies a connection between art and science, showcasing how artists incorporated intellectual themes into their work.
5. During the Age of Discovery, globes became essential tools for explorers, helping them chart unknown territories and contributing to global trade routes.

Review Questions

• How do globes in still life paintings symbolize the relationship between art and science?
  • Globes in still life paintings symbolize the intersection of art and science by showcasing the intellectual pursuits that were significant during their time. They represent the curiosity and exploration that defined periods like the Renaissance and Enlightenment, where artists often included scientific instruments to convey deeper meanings. This blending highlights how artists engaged with contemporary scientific knowledge and reflected societal values regarding education and discovery.
• Discuss the historical context in which globes became popular objects in still life art, particularly regarding advancements in navigation and exploration.
  • Globes became prominent in still life art during the Renaissance when advancements in navigation and exploration were transforming global understanding. This period saw an increase in geographic knowledge due to explorers mapping new territories, making globes vital for understanding Earth’s geography. Artists included globes in their works to signify the burgeoning interest in science, exploration, and the wealth of information being discovered during this transformative time.
• Evaluate how globes reflect broader cultural shifts during their time, particularly in relation to humanism and scientific inquiry.
  • Globes reflect broader cultural shifts by embodying the ideals of Renaissance Humanism and the rise of scientific inquiry. As society moved toward valuing individual knowledge and exploration, globes became symbols of human achievement and intellectual pursuit. They signify a shift from religious dogma to empirical observation, representing a time when art began to engage with science as a means to explore humanity's place in the universe, ultimately influencing both artistic expression and scientific thought.

Related terms

Cartography: The art and science of map-making, which involves the representation of geographical information in visual form.

Scientific Instruments: Devices used to measure or test various scientific phenomena, often included in still life to signify advancements in knowledge.

Renaissance Humanism: An intellectual movement during the Renaissance that emphasized the study of classical texts and the value of human potential and achievements.