Armenian Art

Armenia’s profound history and its rich cultural heritage have played a massive role in the development of world renowned Armenian art. The natural beauty of Armenia, its picturesque hilly landscape, enchanting lush green forests and cascading rivers have inspired Armenian art throughout ages.

History of Armenian Art:

• Armenian art forms have undergone several significant developmental phases. The period of ninth and sixth centuries BC was one of landmarks in the history of Armenian art . Armenia during this period was the Kingdom of Urartu. Citadels, jewelry made of gold, temples, irrigation channels, stone seals were some of the typical artistic objects made by the Urartians.
• After the a formal adoption of Christianity, Christian iconography influenced art in Armenia. The discovery of Armenian alphabets, Armenian language and literature contributed towards the enhancement of the art of the illuminated manuscript.
• Armenian architecture found a new expression in the form of Armenian Churches. Monasteries also became the seats of artistic excellence with the creation of illuminated manuscripts.
• From the sixteenths to eighteenth centuries Armenian art began to reflect the day to day life of the people. The art of carpet-making also flourished in Armenia.
• Significant changes took place in art forms since nineteenth century. The works of Armenian writers reflected ideas of Romanticism, after eastern Armenia became a part of Russia. Armenian paintings flourished during this period.
• The beginning of the 20 th century has seen a lot of emphasis on the revival of traditional Armenian art forms. Poetry, theater, music and architecture received great impetus.

It can be stated without any doubt that Armenian art has contributed significantly to the development of world art.