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The term “Gothic” in the art world was originally synonymous with the term Barbaric. It was highly criticized by the medieval art community as being uncivilized. Many renaissance authors believed that the invasion of the gothic tribes caused the demise of classical art. The description of art as gothic can be seen as early as the 1500’s. It was highly criticized and was said to be reminiscent of primitive Germanic huts by the Italian Renaissance painter, Raphael. Although highly criticized by many French authors, such as Rousseau and Boileau Northern France was a major force in the development of this medieval art style.

Portrait of a Man with a High Hat
Artist: French Painter (dated 1570)
Medium: Oil on wood


Portrait of Princess Sibylle of Cleve
By Lucas Cranach the Elder in 1526
Medium mixed technique on beech wood



A Prince of Saxony, c. 1517
Lucas Cranach the Elder, German, 1472 - 1553
Medium oil on panel


Gothic Sculpture, late 15th century, Amiens Cathedral