Styles & Periods

Styles & Periods

Metaphysical Painting

Metaphysical painting, while not officially ever a style, explored the possibilities of expressing irrationality and intuition in a manner later dominated by the Surrealists. Iconography, including figures in classical architectural settings, characterizes the work of many of the Metaphysical painters. Giorgio de Chirico developed and practiced the style, with followers including Carlo Carrà and Giorgio Morandi. Psychoanalysis, dreams and fantasy were coming into vogue, as artists sought out new means for expression. Metaphysical painters did not completely reject tradition, however. Strong interests in one-point perspective and the architecture of Italy’s arched walkways and squares dominate De Chirico’s work. The artist managed to forge a new sensibility in his work although these elements were unpredictable, either due to light sources, contradicting images, or unreal perspective. The Metaphysical painters imbued their canvases with emotions of shock, surprise and mystery, and were the forerunners of one of the defining styles of the 20th century, Surrealism.


Feeling inspired? Try out these fine products…

From $466.71

Deluxe Lobo Wood Easel

by Best

Ideal for mixed media paintings
Top Rated

Up to 27% Off

Extreme Sheen Paint

by DecoArt

Exceptional and Supremely bright metallics

From $1.25

Up to 40% Off

Acrylic Ink

by Amsterdam

Ultra fluid!

At Least 34% Off

Duo Aqua Artist Oil Color

by Holbein

A water soluble medium, Duo is easy and pleasant to use.

From $5.30

Artist Gold Taklon Brushes

by Maestra

Brushes in convenient sets.
Latest Product Reviews
This is the red we've all been waiting for! It is a deep, darker red, but not mahogany in color at all. Of all the reds I have in my collection, this is by far my favorite. One layer is perfect, but as you paint over it again, it remains true to its color, in a darker hue, of course. Thank you TH!
- JenG in Michigan
Excellent caps at a killer price.!!!
- jim Heath in Murrieta Ca
These markers are amazing! They work well on a variety of surfaces and the colors are vibrant.
- Jane Smith in New York, NY
Free Download for Kids

Download free coloring book pages Download FREE coloring
book pages to color at
home or school.

View Pages »