Final answer:
Art historians analyze artworks through iconographic analysis and formal analysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
1. Iconographic Analysis
One mode that art historians use to analyze artworks is through iconographic analysis. This involves examining the icons or symbols present in a work to understand its original meaning and intent. By studying the cultural context and the people behind the artwork, art historians can unravel the symbolism and messages conveyed by the artist.
2. Formal Analysis
The second mode of analysis is formal analysis. This involves examining the formal characteristics of the artwork, such as its composition, color, line, shape, and texture. Art historians analyze how these formal elements work together to create meaning and evoke emotional responses. Understanding the formal qualities of an artwork helps to place it within its historical context and identify the style of the artist or the period in which it was created.