The Carus Typology is a classification system developed by Ernst Carus to categorize works of art based on their subject matter, style, and form. It is commonly used in art history and helps provide a framework for understanding and analyzing various artistic expressions.

The first aspect of the Carus Typology is the subject matter. It involves examining the content, theme, or narrative depicted in an artwork. By classifying artworks based on subject matter, it becomes easier to identify common motifs, themes, or historical events that artists explore in their creations.

The second aspect of the Carus Typology is the style of a piece. Style refers to the distinctive visual characteristics, techniques, or modes of representation employed by artists. It helps identify similarities and differences in how artists interpret and depict their subject matter, providing insights into artistic movements, influences, and individual artistic expression.

The third aspect of the Carus Typology is the formal qualities of an artwork. Form relates to the physical properties, composition, and spatial arrangement of the art piece. It examines aspects such as color, line, shape, texture, and proportion. Analyzing form helps understand the visual impact and aesthetic qualities of an artwork, considering elements like balance, symmetry, or rhythm.