How Did The Protestant Reformation Influence Northern European Art

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The Protestant Reformation had a massive sway on the visual arts in Northern European art. One of the main changes was that holy imagery was no longer the most significant feature in art. Iconoclasm took over as Protestant reformers encouraged the removal of pious images. The patrons of the north became more captivated in secular concepts and ideas, and they also wanted their messages about ethics to be shown in fewer godly behaviors. The Reformation led artists to seek patrons outside of the church; and several different types of themes were requested during this time. Furthermore, there was a high demand for small paintings, which contained irreligious subject matter. Landscapes are an example of subject matter, which was sought after, this