International Gothic Style

International Gothic Style, in the visual arts, a similarity of style in painting, manuscript illumination, sculpture, decorative arts, and architecture manifested in different parts of Europe during the late 14th and into the 15th century, toward the end of the Gothic period (see Gothic Art and Architecture). This style is noted for extreme linearity—in painting, this meant flowing curves—which gives the effect of elegance and refinement. Also characteristic of the style are attention to surface design and decorative detail; bright, sharply contrasting colors; and elongated figures often portrayed in slightly fantastic costumes. Paintings executed with graceful draftsmanship adorned portable panels or altarpieces designed for churches and commissioned by wealthy patrons for private chapels.

But not all art in the International Gothic style was religious. Many of the works demonstrated a new interest in secular themes, especially in the depiction of aristocratic life. International Gothic emerged in France at the courts of the aristocracy and spread from France to the rest of Europe. Because artists of the time often journeyed from one court or art center to another, it is difficult to date works in this style or to give their place of origin. For example, a French architect, Matthias of Arras, began building the Cathedral of Saint Vitus in Prague in 1344, and, upon his death in 1353, was succeeded by German architect Peter Parler. The renowned French manuscript, the Très riches heures du Duc de Berry (1413-1416, Musée Condé, Chantilly), was illuminated by the Limbourg brothers, natives of Flanders.