Neoclassical Art Period

Overview

• Height: Late 18th and early 19th century
• Origin: Rome, spread throughout Europe and the United States
• Focus: Return to ancient Greek and Roman art characteristics and ideals
• Ideals: Simplicity, reason, order, virtue, and civilized society

Key Factors Leading to Neoclassicism

1. Pushback Against Baroque and Rococo

   • Baroque Movement (1600-1750): Characterized by drama, emotion, and tension.
   • Rococo Movement (Early 1700s - Late 1700s): More fun, sensual, and frivolous; turned away from church themes.
   • Neoclassicism emerged as a reaction against the extravagance of these styles.

2. Writings of Johann Joachim Winkelmann

   • German art historian and archaeologist; often considered the father of art history.
   • Promoted ideals of noble simplicity and calm grandeur.
   • Advocated that greatness in art comes from imitating ancient art.

3. Excavations of Pompeii and Herculaneum

   • Began in the mid-1730s and 40s; discoveries revived interest in Roman and Greek art.
   • Rome became a significant stop on the Grand Tour for European upper-class men.

4. 18th Century Age of Enlightenment

   • Philosophical movement valuing science and reason.
   • Promoted ideals of individual liberty, religious tolerance, and constitutional government.
   • Neoclassical artists reflected these ideals through orderly and reasonable art.

Characteristics of Neoclassical Art

• Themes: Seriousness, symmetry, orderliness, virtue, heroism.
• Subjects: Depictions from classical history, political, philosophical, and religious leaders.
• Architecture: Simpler, less ornate compared to Baroque and Rococo.
• Artists:
  • Jacques-Louis David: Leader of the neoclassical movement in France; known for simple yet dramatic paintings.
  • His works evolved into propaganda but were impactful and influential.

Conclusion

• Neoclassical art may seem boring to some, but it possesses beauty through classic Roman and Greek characteristics.
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