The Medieval World — During the long years of the Dark Ages, the Church was principally responsible for keeping art alive. The great masters of medieval art, among them Giotto and van Eyck, worked within the confines of the religious world and laid the groundwork for the Renaissance to follow. This film features the work of Masaccio, Uccello, van Ecyk, Giotto, and Botticelli.

The Renaissance — The Renaissance marked the rediscovery and reintroduction into the art world of the techniques and inspirations that had been lost since the classical era. The Renaissance was the golden age that inspired the likes of Leonardo da Vinci and Titian. This episode features the work of those two artists plus Raphael, Holbein, and Michelangelo. Masterpieces highlighted include Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, and The Assumption.

The Baroque — The artists of the Baroque period showed the world new possibilities, expanding upon the greatness of Renaissance artists. The Dutch masters in the north and the likes of Valásquez and Caravaggio in the south expanded the limits of realism and expression. This film features the work of Valásquez, Caravaggio, Frans Hals, Rembrandt, and Rubens. It is an entertaining and educational program that also includes commentary and analysis by noted art historians of the Baroque and Neoclassical periods.

The Rococo to Revolution — The 17th century saw the development of non-secular art; the world of art in the 18th century assumed a more decorative role with a greater emphasis on pastoral themes. A strong classical influence also emerged, most notably in the work of Titian and Rubens. The Rococo to Revolution features the work of Watteau, Boucher, Hogarth, David, Gainsborough, and Reynolds. It explores such masterpieces as A Rake’s Progress and The Death of Marat.

Romanticism — The Romantic period saw the fading away of the strict classical disciplines of the 18th century. Two very different movements came to prominence during this time. One led by Constable and Turner, who were influenced by nature, the other involving the stirring works of Goya and Géricault. This film explores the genius of works such as Francisco de Goya’s The Third of May and The Haywain by John Constable. Romanticism has had a profound impact on the history of western art, and this film’s analysis by leading art historians adds to our understanding of the period.

Impressionism and Post-Impressionism — The Impressionist School turned the art world upside down. Cézanne, Seurat, and Manet produced inspirational yet controversial works that completely revolutionized thinking in the world of art. This sixth episode of Landmarks of Western Art also features the work of van Gogh and Degas, and explores such masterpieces as Sunflowers, A Sunday on La Grande Jatte, and The Dancing Class. Highlights of the film include footage from leading art galleries.