What does the term 'Iconoclasm' refer to in art history?

The term 'Iconoclasm' refers specifically to the rejection or destruction of religious images and artifacts. This concept is rooted in historical movements that sought to dismantle the use of icons in worship, particularly during periods of religious upheaval and reform, such as the Protestant Reformation in Europe. Iconoclasm is significant in art history because it reflects broader cultural and ideological conflicts regarding the nature of faith, representation, and the role of art in society.

In context, while other choices highlight important developments in art, they do not pertain to the core meaning of iconoclasm. For example, the introduction of new artistic techniques and the celebration of digital art focus on advancements and transformations in artistic practices rather than a rejection of images. Public art installations, while an important facet of contemporary art discussions, do not connect directly to the essential idea of rejecting or destroying existing imagery for ideological reasons. Thus, the focus of iconoclasm captures a critical historical and cultural phenomenon in the study of art history.