“Creation No. 9” Artist: Daniel Heller

Just what is an art Masterpiece?

Origin and history

The word comes from the Dutch meesterstuk, a “work by which a craftsman attains the rank of master.” Historically, a “masterpiece”‘ was a work of a very high standard produced to obtain membership of a guild or academy in various areas of the visual arts and crafts.

In modern day era, in the art world, it is a creation that has been given a lot of critical praise. Usually, it is the best work that an artist has produced in his entire life. It is also a work that demonstrates outstanding creativity, great technical skill and the highest level of execution and workmanship.

When critics and other experts call a work of art “Masterpiece” they refer to artworks that fulfill some established criteria.

Masterpiece the judging criteria

Naming an artwork a masterpiece is a judgment call, usually based on the following generally agreed upon criteria:
The work presents an important idea.
It conveys a message.
It uses a perfect design and excellent execution.
And also, it represents an important achievement or milestone in the history of art.

The definition extends beyond the visual arts. A masterpiece can also refer to an outstanding performance by a very skilled actor.

Examples

Some of the most recognized masterpieces of all times are:

The sculpture of David by Michaelangelo, The Mona Lisa painting by Leonardo Da Vinci, Guernica by Pablo Picasso and Starry Night by Van Gogh, to name just a few.

Suggested Reading

Articles on the artgreeT BLOG.