Problem
The style of baroque art varies considerably, from opulent and decorative to gory and gritty. Why are all of these seemingly contradictory types of works of art considered baroque? Is the term baroque suitable to refer to all of these differing styles under one overarching classification? The word baroque also derives from the Portuguese word barocco, meaning irregular pearl. Does it have a negative connotation to call the art of this time period "irregular"?