rococo

Rococo is an extreme development of the Baroque style, forming the conclusion to a continuum of increasing floridity and ornateness that begins with the rational classicism of the Renaissance and progresses through Mannerism and Baroque architecture. Rococo designs are sometimes so ornate that it would be difficult to conceive of adding any elaboration to them.

Typical features include twisting columns, extensive gilding, bursts of ornament with organic or sun-ray patterns, and overlapping ornamental planes.

Approximate Dates: 1720 to 1770