What is the history of mural painting?

The history of mural painting dates back to prehistoric times, with early examples found in caves, such as those in Lascaux, France, dating around 15,000 BCE. These primitive artworks were created using natural pigments and depicted animals and hunting scenes. Key periods in the history of mural painting include: 1. Ancient Civilizations: In ancient Egypt, murals decorated tombs and temples, illustrating religious beliefs and daily life. The Minoans of Crete (circa 2000-1400 BCE) produced vibrant frescoes depicting nature and human activities. 2. Classical Antiquity: Greek and Roman cultures used murals in public buildings and homes, showcasing mythological themes and landscapes. The Romans developed techniques for perspective, enhancing the depth of mural art. 3. Middle Ages: During this period, murals adorned churches, often featuring biblical scenes to educate the illiterate populace. 4. Renaissance: Mural painting flourished, with artists like Michelangelo and Raphael creating masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican. Techniques such as chiaroscuro and linear perspective were refined, allowing for greater realism. 5. Baroque and Rococo: The 17th and 18th centuries saw murals become more elaborate, with dramatic compositions and rich colors. 6. Modern Era: The 20th century brought diverse styles, including muralism movements in Mexico, led by artists like Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros, focusing on social and political themes. Street art and graffiti have emerged as contemporary forms of mural painting, reflecting urban culture and issues. Throughout history, mural painting has evolved, serving various functions from decorative art to social commentary, and continues to be a vital form of artistic expression today. read less

Murals date back to 30,000 BC from the earliest paintings in the Chauvet cave France. The largest numbers of paintings are from Egyptian tombs in 3150BC, Pompeii in 100BC-AD79 and Minoan places 1700-1600BC. The whole period within which ancient paintings are is known as the Upper Paleolithic times.

read less