What artistic movement was characterized by intense studies of life forms and their surroundings during the 1600s?

The Baroque movement, which emerged in the 17th century, is characterized by its dramatic expression and intense studies of life forms and their surroundings. This period was marked by a fascination with realism, movement, and emotional depth, which artists explored through intricate details and dynamic compositions.

Painters like Caravaggio, for instance, utilized chiaroscuro to create a sense of depth and dimensionality that enhanced the lifelike quality of their subjects. Sculptors and architects of the Baroque era also emphasized grandeur and ornamentation, which served to engage viewers on a sensory level.

While Romanticism, Classicism, and Realism each focused on different aspects of human experience and artistic method, it was Baroque art that set the stage for a vivid exploration of life forms in their contexts, showcasing the complexities of human emotion and the natural world.