Baroque refers to an overly ornate style of art and architecture that dominated European art and architecture in the 17th century. It originated in Rome through the Catholic Church in its effort to move away from the severe style of Protestant art and inspire the common people. It creates dramatic realism and emotional appeal through the use of intricate ornamentation, bold colors, and a sense of drama and grandeur.

Baroque art is often characterized by its dramatic, realistic style and use of bold colors and light-dark contrast. It also frequently features intricate details and a sense of grandeur. Many of the great masters of the Baroque period were painters, including Caravaggio, Peter Paul Rubens, and Rembrandt van Rijn.

The Baroque period in architecture is often associated with the grandiose designs of the Catholic Church, such as St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and the Palace of Versailles in France. However, the Baroque style was also used in secular architecture, such as public squares and palaces.

The Baroque period was a time of great creativity in the arts, with many artists and architects pushing the boundaries of their mediums. It was also a time of great religious and political turmoil, which is reflected in the often dramatic and emotional nature of Baroque art.