My Favorite Paintings Quiz | Art

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1. One of my favorite paintings is of the Biblical "Samson and Delilah." Created in 1609, this masterpiece in oil on wood shows the detail of the artist's hand. Upon looking at the painting, to the far right-hand in the background, you will notice a man that is watching the conniving Delilah as she is becoming anxious for the barber to strip Samson of his strength-holding tresses. This is an excellent example of the artist capturing minute expressions outside the reach of vision. If one only looks at Samson and Delilah, then you are sure to miss the statue of mother and child which adorns the wall behind the barber. Who is the creator of this magnificent work of art?

Answer: Peter Paul Rubens

The painting of "Samson and Delilah" by Rubens, is in my opinion extremely detailed. One can see with certainty the enthusiasm he has put into its creation. Most believe Rubens' strict religious upbringing gave way to his painting of Biblical scenes, however, if you have the opportunity to view some of his other works such as "Daniel in the Lion's Den," which is on display at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, then you will have had the rare experience of seeing his attention, not only to the focal point of his paintings, but also to all the outlying characters. His interpretations of such scenes are brought to life with the stroke of his brush.

"Samson and Delilah" can be seen at the National Gallery in London in the North Wing.

As a side note, one of the things that always drew me to this story was the fact that Samson really believed his strength came from his locks, and come the end of his story after he is blinded, he realises that he had the strength deep within himself all along and that it was something that could not be taken from him, as it was a gift given to him.

2. Another painting that is a favorite, and expresses the still life aspect of creation, is "Apples, Peaches, Pears and Grapes," which was done in oil on canvas and was created between 1879 to 1880. The use of dark spaces and shadowing underneath the table, and the background view and exposure of what appear to be leaves on a vine hanging in mid-air, show that the artist is an expert with stills. By using geometric and dimensional shapes the fruit that is placed on the platter in the center of the table, is brought to life. Who is the creator of this work of art?

Answer: Paul Cezanne

Born in 1839, Cezanne is perhaps the most talented and recognised still-life painter of his time. In his creation of "Apples, Peaches, Pears and Grapes" he defines each sector of fruit that is on the blue and white platter. The depth and lining of the table itself shows how he brings out the dimensions of the table and how he actually lends weight to the fruit that is placed in the middle of it, waiting for someone to try the delectable delights.

The use of geometric shapes in this painting in particular are three dimensional and cannot be fully seen unless you are actually looking for them, his blend of contrast and shadowing, along with depth and design brought to life any canvas that he touched.

"Apples, Peaches, Pears and Grapes" can be viewed at the Hermitage in St. Petersburg, Russia.

Another painting that clearly shows Cezanne's attention to detail is "Flowers in a Blue Vase." In this particular painting, one almost has the sensation as if they are inhaling the fragrance from the lovely, fresh flowers.

3. This is another favorite of mine, which stems from learning about Greek Mythology in school. I had a wonderful teacher who made certain that his students knew full well "The Myth of Prometheus." This painting is perhaps my most favorite, although I have many. This painting was created in 1515 in oil on panel, which perhaps may explain its captivating nature. The attention to the detail in the distance of the clouds is truly remarkable; if you pay close attention it appears as if someone is watching Prometheus from above. The main focal point in the creator's mind is of a man, with his arm raised and pointing towards the right. Following his finger you can clearly see a couple flying in the skies above, and they seem to be rejoicing in the gift that Prometheus has given to them; others have a severe look of distress as if they are expecting the pending doom that is bound to happen. The waves of the hillside beyond the painter's attention is noticeable, yet does not detract from the man standing on his pedestal, and one can picture in one's mind the people that live there. Who created this mythological painting?

Answer: Piero di Cosimo

Piero di Cosimo was born in 1462 and died in 1521, which is questionable at best. Piero has been portrayed by many as an eccentric person with a strong personality, who loved a diet based on hard boiled eggs. Whatever his diet, one cannot deny his talents for painting. His favorite medium was oil and he admired and idolized Raphael, while he painted long before the master, he still held desires to be just like him.

Some critics of his work, believe that his paintings lack intensity, but if you look closely at "The Myth of Prometheus," on the ground to the left of his pedestal, you will notice a small watering container that clearly shows di Cosimo's detail...right down to the handle on the small jug.

For those that have never had the chance to see this style of painting, it can be viewed at The Pinakothek in Munich, Germany.

4. Onward and upward with the ever continuing list of paintings that capture my attention. In 1533, "The Ambassadors" was created in oil on wood. This astounding masterpiece portrays the images of Jean de Dinteville, the French Ambassador to England during 1533 and of Georges de Selve, Bishop of Lavaur. The artist's intensity can be seen in the color scheme he chose. The hues of red, which appear as ochre, in contrast to the dark back drop, are noticeable in the vanity that is between the two gentlemen. If you allow your eyes to wander down to the books that are located in the lower portion of the table, you can see that the pages appear life-like, as if they are just waiting to be read or to reveal secrets that these two men may have. Which of the following artists created this painting?

Answer: Hans Holbein the Younger

Hans Holbein the Younger was born in 1497 and died in London in 1543, a victim of the plague. His desire and talent for painting came from his father, Hans Holbein the Elder, however, the Younger proved far more talented than his father. Before becoming a painter, the Younger was an illustrator for humanist Erasmus, but he soon realised that his talents lie with a brush and paint.

In his painting "The Ambassadors," the Younger shows his sense of wit and distinction by incorporating a skull into his creation, which is located at the bottom of the painting. When viewed head-on the skull appears to be disproportionate and underdeveloped, yet if you view it standing on a direct sideline, you can clearly see the detailed design. Also, in his descriptive of Jean de Dinteville on the left, you will notice the way his hand is dangling in a relaxed way, while Georges de Selve appears to be uptight about something as is noted by the way it appears as if he is clenching his hands.

"The Ambassadors" can be viewed at the National Gallery in London.

5. To some this next painting may not be so grand or breathtaking, but to me it is a lovely fresh approach to the country scenery. "Field with Poppies" was created in 1889 in oil on canvas. This is a still of a field, and if you look further into the background you can see what appear to be rows that have been hoed, just waiting for someone to sprinkle seeds. The golden hues that are used in the small patch of field to the left, next to the poppies, is a wonderful color scheme. The artist gives you the impression that the trees on the outer edges are swaying. From this writer's point of view, it also gives the vision as if you are standing on a small hillside overlooking the beautiful field. Which artist created this painting?

Answer: Vincent van Gogh

Vincent van Gogh was born on March 30, 1853, and died on July 29, 1890. His unique talent with a brush laid claim to his fame of being the next best draughstman after Rembrandt. In "Field with Poppies," if you look closely, you can see by his use of a course brush style, that each row of flowers appear to be full and life like. Even his attention to the objects on the far right hand side of the painting stand out. While to some it may not be superb, it is a very lovely painting.

"Field with Poppies," can be seen in Kunsthalle Bremen.

An interesting side note is that all of van Gogh's creations were done in the relatively short time span of ten years.

6. Another one of my favorites is "The School of Athens," which was created between 1510-1511 and is a fresco. The extraordinary attention to the detail in this painting can clearly be seen in every aspect. One should note the many philosophers who abound in the playground set by the artist. Take notice of Pythagoras who can be seen sitting on the lower steps and reading a book to Anaxagoras...the writing in the book is extremely visible, and the gentle look on his face as he is reading to her, is a gift given to him by the fresco's creator. In the main entrance of the painting are two well known and respected philosophers, Plato on the left and Aristotle on the right. Each and every person in the painting has a personality and depth all their own courtesy of the artist. This masterpiece has one amazing interest for anyone that likes this artist's work...he has incorporated himself into the painting, and is situated between Zoroaster and Ptolemy on the far right. Which of the following created this masterpiece?

Answer: Raphael

Raphael was born Raffello Sanzio on April 6, 1483. Raphael is best known for his large configurations in the Vatican and also for his Madonnas. The fresco "The School of Athens" indicates to one and all his fine attention to everything he touched. If you have a chance to view this, take notice of Diogenes in the center of the steps...he appears to be extremely relaxed and totally carefree. Then there is Heraclitus resting with his left arm comfortably supporting his head while leaning on what appears to be medium box or crate of some sort.

The attention to color is eye catching, as the soft shades of blue, yellow and red adorn the dressings of the people in the grand hall of Athens.

"The School of Athens" can be seen in the Vatican, Stanza della Segnatura, Rome.

7. Another one that catches my attention is "The Turkish Bath," which was created in 1862 and is in oil on wood. One of the reasons I like this particular painting is that it shows the artist's impressions of people relaxing and enjoying themselves. Another thing that is not noticeable if you are not looking for it, is a vase that rests in a small alcove on the wall to the left. The fine detail is stunning and gives the impression of being three dimensional. Take note of the lady standing to the left with her arms uplifted...the necklace that she is wearing stands out against her nudity, as if the creator wants attention drawn to her face and not to her body. Which of the following created this painting?

Answer: Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres

Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres was born in 1780 and died in 1867. Some believe his talents and love of the arts came from his father, Jean-Marie-Joseph Ingres, who was a minor sculptor and painter. However, Jean-Auguste's talents far exceeded his father's and with certainty historians have found there to have been jealousy on the part of Jean-Marie. In a letter written for his wife at the time of his passing, Jean-Marie, noted that he was ashamed of himself for the strange way he treated his son, and did not intend to be that way, and that because of those feelings he thought he held back his love from his son.

Whether in an attempt to gain his father's approval or not, Jean-Auguste proved that he had what it took to enter into the art world. He had a strong sensual side of him which he clearly allowed the world to see. Creating and enhancing these types of settings is something that he continually was drawn to and in "The Turkish Bath" it is noticeable how he captures the love and desires that are drawn from the women.

The attention to the parfum spray in the lady's hand in the right of the painting, is very genuine and shows the gentle way she caresses the atomizer while spraying herself lightly with the lovely fragrance that it holds.

This remarkable creation can be found on display in the Musee du Louvre in Paris, France.

8. "The Biglin Brothers Racing" was created in 1873. One of the reasons that I like this particular painting is quite possibly due in part to the artist's birth place. In "The Biglin Brothers Racing", the unique way the artist has of capturing the rippling of the water, while the brothers are gliding across the surface is mesmerizing. If you dare look further beyond to the shore line, you will note a lovely etched house that has all the features of a seaside and/or country home. But, the most fascinating feature of the painting itself is the simulation of motion that can be seen in the brothers' arms as they are rowing their canoes. Which artist created this painting?

Answer: Thomas Eakins

Eakins was born in 1844, in Carlton Square in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and died in 1916. In his native Philadelphia he is considered to be a master, and while some may agree or disagree with this writer, the expressions of motion in this particular painting are fascinating.

If you look to the lower level of the painting, you will see another canoe that the Biglin Brothers are racing, and in Eakins version it comes across as if the brothers are winning the race to the finish line.

The majority of Thomas' work can be viewed at the Philadelphia Museum of Art; however, "The Biglin Brothers Racing" is on display at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.

9. Most likely for anyone that enjoys art, "The Last Supper" is on their list of pieces that they like. This mural was created in 1498, and makes note of Jesus' final supper with his apostles. This artist leaves nothing to chance in his version of what transpired during their final meeting. The relaxed and carefree way of his disciples is extremely apparent. One should take notice of the view that is visible from the windows behind Christ: you can clearly see the detail of bushes and trees outside. The fine attention to the garments that are worn by Christ are superbly handled with a slight turn of the brush here and there, bringing the cascading cover to life. One should also note the layout of the eating ware on the table set before them; every single piece is finely detailed right down to the wine in their cups. What is the name of the artist who created this masterpiece?

Answer: Leonardo da Vinci

Leonardo da Vinci was born in 1452 and died on May 2, 1519. He is perhaps the most recognised painter the world has ever known. Aside from painting, da Vinci was also a draftsman, sculptor, architect, and engineer. His genius no doubt epitomized the Renaissance era.

With his creation of Christ's final meal, the gateways opened to the shroud of controversy that stems from that one creation. There are some that believe, Mary Magdalene is shown immediately to Christ's right-hand side. While others insist they count twelve apostles and Mary. But, in this writer's opinion if you look closely at the person to Christ's right, you can almost believe the person present to have mid-length flowing auburn hair, and an ever so faint hint of a bustline. While this may or may not be the case, I have continually counted the people seated around Christ and always count the same amount each and everytime....twelve followers and Jesus.

If you happen to be looking at "The Last Supper", you should take note of the in-depth design on the archway trim that surrounds what appears to be a coat of arms.

This masterpiece can be seen on display in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan.

10. And now we come to the end of my favorite paintings. "Morning" was created in 1821 in oil on canvas. The view that the artist allows us to see is simply amazing. The way it is set you can almost imagine yourself awaking on a crisp morning as the sun beams begin to burst through a shroud of trees and hills. The creator's attention to the rolling fog that covers the ground and enhances the beauty of the trees, yet allows you to see the ever-changing colors of the sky above is most appealing and extremely calming. Looking further at the smaller shrub to the bottom left, you will note the individual attention that was given to every single leaf. Which of the following created this painting?

Answer: Casper David Friedrich

Casper David Friedrich was born on September 5, 1774, and died on May 7, 1840. He is considered Germany's most romantic painter and contributed greatly to the landscape era of painting. Every single landscape creation is based entirely on his views of Northern Germany.

The way Friedrich uses color to bring to life his creations is stunning...as he gives us the feeling as if we are really there viewing these remarkable visions. Also if one has a chance to see this painting, the fog rolling in and surrounding the hills far in the background is truly eye catching, as you can notice every curve and stroke of where the fog seems to be rising further up from the valley below. In particular, the color of faint golden hues enhance his vision of what his environment consisted of and of what he saw when he stepped outside of his home.

"Morning" can be viewed in Niedersachsisches Landes Museum in Hannover.

Thank you for playing and I hope that you enjoyed it.

All information can be found at

http://www.ibiblio.org/wm/paint/auth/

Source: Author JuniorTheJaws

This quiz was reviewed by FunTrivia editor Bruyere before going online.
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My Favorite Paintings Trivia Quiz

While there are numerous paintings, everyone has their own personal favorites. Hopefully, some of the ones I like best will be interesting to you as well. After all art is a personal experience that should be cherished and nurtured. Have fun and enjoy!

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