1. Cultural Significance:
- Major arts are often considered to be more significant and valued within a culture or society. They hold a greater cultural importance and are associated with high levels of artistic achievement.
- Minor arts, on the other hand, are considered less significant in comparison. They are often products of craftsmanship and applied arts rather than pure artistic expression.
2. Materials and Techniques:
- Major arts typically involve the use of expensive, rare, and durable materials such as marble, gold, silver, and precious stones. They often require a high level of technical skill and artistic training to create.
- Minor arts, in contrast, are usually crafted from less expensive and more common materials such as wood, ceramics, textiles, and metalwork. They often involve traditional techniques passed down through generations rather than formal artistic training.
3. Artistic Expression vs. Functionality:
- Major arts primarily focus on artistic expression, aesthetics, and symbolic representation. They are created for their intrinsic beauty and artistic value rather than practical use.
- Minor arts often have a functional purpose in addition to their aesthetic qualities. They may serve practical or utilitarian purposes such as pottery, furniture, jewelry, textiles, and decorative objects.
4. Historical Development:
- Major arts have historically been associated with the patronage of wealthy individuals, aristocrats, religious institutions, and royal courts. They were created by highly skilled artists and artisans who received recognition and status.
- Minor arts, on the other hand, were often produced by skilled artisans and craftsmen who belonged to lower social classes. They were considered less prestigious and received less recognition for their work.
5. Perception and Classification:
- Major arts are traditionally celebrated, studied, and displayed in museums, galleries, and other art institutions. They have been extensively documented and analyzed in art historical discourse.
- Minor arts may receive less attention in traditional art historical narratives and institutions, but they are gaining increasing recognition for their cultural and artistic value in contemporary art scholarship and exhibitions.
It's important to note that the distinctions between major and minor arts are somewhat subjective and can vary depending on cultural context, historical period, and individual perspectives. The classification of arts into these categories has evolved over time and continues to be debated within the field of art history.