Answer:
The correct answers are Italy and Baroque
From the end of the XVI until mid of the XVIII century, reaching its apex in the XVII century, the art was under the Baroque trend, considered the first world style in Art History, which had its origins in Italy and it was adopted in constructions in the five continents, with their local variations.
Explanation:
The term Baroque derives from the Italian<em> Barroco</em> that is “an imperfect pearl”, because of its exaggerated compositions in contrast with the Renaissance’s serenity.
It was first adopted as an instrument of the Catholic Church’s Counterreform, a response to the increasing number of the Reformation Theories, commissioning many projects to the Baroque style architects. The excess, the extravagant form, the use of curves whether in façades or layouts, and movement in adornments are the main characteristics of that style, that suddenly was applied in non-religious constructions, such as palaces or governmental institutions.
The magnificent and lavished aspects of Baroque inspired the sense of power in construction, which raptures the observes by its outdoors and indoors.
One of the most importants examples of that style in architecture is the Versailles Palace, which is a complex of many other palaces converted into imposing floor plants. Versailles was commissioned by Louis XVI as his cabinet but also residence to all his courtiers, being the central power of France until 1789. Its outside stairways are legendary, as its impressive façade, that diminishes any human being due to its heights. The Mirror Hall was a mark in Baroque indoors and was copied in many other constructions.
Other examples are the Saint Petersburg Palaces, in Russia, that have been commissioned by Peter I and Catherine I. Peterhof Palace is considered the “Russian Versailles”, but in fact is bigger than the original one. The tzar was impressed by Versailles grandiosity and wanted to elevate Russia’s national esteem by creating the first planned Baroque city outside western Europe, with lavishing palaces.
