Mannerism
The term was initially used by Vasari, who
referred to the Renaissance style of art as
"maniera" (stylishness) - a positive term. Later it
was limited to late Renaissance work of the 16th
century that was regarded as superficial or
exaggerated.
Mannerist painting is marked by stylization and
distortion. There is often exaggration and
unusual posturing.
Many regard the style as being a reaction on the
part of artists to the perfection and naturalism of
Raphael - how could they top him in his own
style?
Parmigianino's deliberate extension of the
Virgin's neck - that compares her to a swan - is
an example of this style. Her proportions are
clearly not correct throughout.
Bronzino's (The dark one - really Agnolo di
Cosimo, 150372) "Allegory of Venus" (otherwise
known as the "Exposure of Luxury" is yet
another example. Venus embrases Cupid, her
son, but the pose is disturbingly incestuous.
Harmony & beauty are gone from this work.
Bronzino's portraits have a coldness that contrasts
sharply with the warmth of Raphael.