Which element became a major focus in Baroque art, often contrasting with light?

In Baroque art, darkness and shadow became a significant element, particularly through the use of chiaroscuro, which is the technique of employing strong contrasts between light and dark to achieve a sense of volume and depth in painting. This dramatic interplay accentuates the emotional intensity and dynamism characteristic of the Baroque style. Artists like Caravaggio famously used this technique to create striking compositions that guide the viewer’s eye and evoke a strong emotional response.

The use of darkness and shadow not only highlights the subject matter but also serves to create a dramatic atmosphere that is essential to the Baroque aesthetic. This contrast enhances the three-dimensionality of figures and objects, making the scenes feel more lifelike and immediate. Hence, this element aligns perfectly with the defining characteristics of Baroque art, which sought to engage the viewer with vivid realism and emotional depth. Other elements, while important in their own right, do not emphasize this contrast with light in the same profound way as darkness and shadow do in Baroque works.