BARROCO: Slaves Master European Art

many African slaves brought superior talents and skills to the new world

Baroque's afro-brasil masters

The baroque era (1600 - 1800) saw expansion of the church tothe new world. to create religious symbols and adornments, Europe's master artists recruited the most talented african slave crafts persons and artists.

The slave as craftsman

artistic skills were common among slaves. church artisans would direct slaves to assist European masters under church commissions. these slaves would evolve into disciplined art masters.

a path to freedom

exceptional talent of some slaves merited european training at church expense. these enslaved afro-brasil masters earned freedom & established studios. they obtained commissions with wealthy and even with those in the royal court.

more info: the Afro Brasil museum

this national touring exhibit is the product of researchers & scholars of sao paulo's afro brasil museum and university of sao paulo . Eventually the rococo movement was defined by decorative flourish, the afro masters excelled in these arts.