The Art of the Baroque Era
The vast complex of St. Peter's provided a magnificent setting for papal pomp and pageantry. In Bernini the Roman Catholic church found its virtuoso architect and sculptor. The Emperor in Vienna and the Kings and Princes in 17th century Europe also used the arts as a means of displaying their power.

The Art of Rococo
A new style emerged which was to characterize the epoch: the ornamental form of the rocaille became the leitmotiv of the Rococo, giving the epoch its name. The world of salons and sophisticated festivities, the lovely world of make-believe is reflected in the pictures of Watteau and Boucher.