How Did Art Change as a Result of the Black Plague? And Why Did Painters Suddenly Start Painting Cats?

The Black Plague, also known as the Black Death, was one of the most devastating pandemics in human history, wiping out an estimated 30-60% of Europe’s population in the 14th century. While its impact on society, economy, and religion is well-documented, its influence on art is equally profound but often overlooked. The plague not only reshaped the way artists viewed life and death but also altered the very fabric of artistic expression. And yes, cats started appearing in paintings—more on that later.

The Shift from Religious Idealism to Human Realism

Before the Black Plague, medieval art was predominantly religious, focusing on idealized depictions of saints, biblical scenes, and the divine. The purpose of art was to inspire piety and reinforce the Church’s authority. However, the plague’s indiscriminate devastation forced artists to confront the fragility of human life. This led to a shift from idealized religious imagery to more realistic portrayals of human suffering and mortality.

Artists like Giotto and later Hieronymus Bosch began to incorporate more human emotions and physical imperfections into their works. The Danse Macabre (Dance of Death) became a popular theme, depicting skeletons leading people from all walks of life to their graves. This was a stark reminder that death was the great equalizer, sparing no one, regardless of wealth or status.

The Rise of Individualism in Art

The massive death toll caused by the plague created labor shortages, which in turn led to higher wages for survivors. This newfound economic power allowed more people to commission art, not just the Church or the nobility. As a result, art became more personalized and reflective of individual tastes and experiences.

Portraiture gained prominence during this period, as people sought to immortalize themselves and their loved ones in the face of widespread death. Artists like Jan van Eyck perfected techniques in oil painting, allowing for greater detail and realism in these personal portraits. The Arnolfini Portrait is a prime example, showcasing not just the subjects but also their wealth, status, and even their pet dog.

The Emergence of Secular Themes

While religion remained a central theme, the plague also paved the way for more secular subjects in art. The constant presence of death made people more aware of the fleeting nature of life, leading to a greater appreciation for earthly pleasures and beauty. This shift is evident in the rise of still-life paintings, landscapes, and scenes of everyday life.

The Tres Riches Heures du Duc de Berry, a beautifully illuminated manuscript, is a testament to this change. While it includes religious imagery, it also features detailed depictions of the changing seasons, agricultural activities, and courtly life. These secular elements reflect a growing interest in the world beyond the Church’s teachings.

The Role of Cats in Post-Plague Art

Now, about those cats. During the plague, cats were often blamed for spreading the disease and were killed in large numbers. Ironically, this led to an increase in the rat population, which actually worsened the spread of the plague. After the pandemic, cats began to be seen in a more positive light, and their presence in art became more common.

Cats started appearing in paintings as symbols of domesticity, mystery, and even protection. They were often depicted alongside women, as seen in works like The Annunciation by Lorenzo Lotto, where a cat is shown reacting to the angel’s presence. This newfound appreciation for cats in art reflects a broader cultural shift toward valuing life and the small joys it offers.

The Influence on Artistic Techniques

The plague also had a technical impact on art. With so many skilled artisans dying, there was a need for faster and more efficient methods of production. This led to innovations in techniques and materials. For example, the use of oil paints became more widespread, allowing for richer colors and greater detail.

Additionally, the plague accelerated the development of printmaking. Woodcuts and engravings became popular as they allowed for the mass production of images, making art more accessible to the general public. This democratization of art was a significant departure from the exclusive, Church-dominated art of the past.

The Psychological Impact on Artists

The psychological toll of the plague cannot be overstated. Artists, like everyone else, were deeply affected by the constant presence of death. This trauma found its way into their work, resulting in darker, more introspective pieces. The Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grünewald, for instance, is a haunting depiction of suffering and redemption, reflecting the artist’s own struggles with the horrors of the plague.

At the same time, the plague also inspired a sense of resilience and hope. Many artists began to explore themes of rebirth and renewal, symbolizing humanity’s ability to endure and rebuild. This duality—of despair and hope—became a defining characteristic of post-plague art.

FAQs

Q: Why did the Black Plague lead to more realistic art?
A: The widespread death and suffering caused by the plague forced artists to confront the harsh realities of life, leading to a shift from idealized religious imagery to more realistic portrayals of human emotion and mortality.

Q: How did the plague influence the subject matter of art?
A: The plague led to a greater emphasis on secular themes, such as portraiture, still-life, and everyday scenes, as people became more aware of the fleeting nature of life and sought to celebrate earthly pleasures.

Q: Why did cats start appearing in art after the plague?
A: Cats were initially blamed for spreading the plague and were killed in large numbers. After the pandemic, they were seen in a more positive light and began to appear in art as symbols of domesticity and protection.

Q: What technical innovations in art were spurred by the plague?
A: The plague led to innovations such as the widespread use of oil paints and the development of printmaking, which allowed for faster production and greater accessibility of art.

Q: How did the plague affect the psychological state of artists?
A: The constant presence of death and suffering deeply affected artists, leading to darker, more introspective works. However, it also inspired themes of resilience, hope, and renewal.