Lecture 19-19th century art Part 1-1

Overview of 19th Century Art in France

  • Focused on innovative styles and techniques in painting.

  • Influenced artists in France and across Europe.

  • Two primary early 19th century movements: Romanticism and Realism.

  • Notable artists: Théodore Géricault, Gustave Courbet, Édouard Manet.

Review of 18th Century French Art

Movements

  • Rococo: Characterized by ornate detail and themes of leisure, often depicting the French aristocracy.

  • Neoclassicism: Known for serious historical subjects drawn from ancient Rome, emphasizing moral lessons.

Comparison of Artworks

  • The Swing (Rococo): Depicts leisure activities of the elite with light, whimsical themes.

  • Oath of the Horatii (Neoclassicism by David): Represents a serious narrative from ancient history, showcasing heroic themes.

  • Differences between these styles include:

    • Brushwork

    • Palette choices

    • Composition structures

  • Key aspects to note: the clarity of message and function of each work.

Major 19th Century Art Movements

Overview

  • Four key movements this week:

    • Romanticism

    • Realism

    • Impressionism

    • Post-Impressionism

  • Each movement demonstrates a shift away from traditional techniques.

Definition of Art Movement

  • An art movement is characterized by:

    • Styles and tendencies shared among artists.

    • Lasting for a certain period.

    • Shared techniques, subjects, and ideas.

  • Common suffix: -ism (Indicating modern movements).

Contexts Influencing 19th Century Art

  • Western Colonialism: Brought wealth and new subjects for art.

  • Industrialization: Innovations in technology influenced artistic techniques.

  • Urbanization: Growth of modern cities impacted themes in art reflecting societal changes.

  • Capitalism: Rise of the middle class led to increased demand for art representing modern life.

Romanticism

Time Frame and Characteristics

  • Dated roughly from the late 1780s to the 1830s.

  • Different from Neoclassicism: focuses on emotional depth, the power of nature, and contemporary events.

  • Key Example: The Raft of the Medusa by Géricault (1818).

Description of The Raft of the Medusa

  • Large-scale oil painting (5 x 7 meters).

  • Represents a contemporary tragedy rather than traditional history.

  • Based on a historical event where the French Navy ship Medusa sank off Senegal in 1816, leading to a scandal involving social class disparities.

  • Depicts a desperate struggle for survival and the human condition.

Techniques Used by Géricault

  • Composition: Jarring pyramidal structure; dynamic, asymmetrical.

  • Effects of Light: Dramatic use of light and shadow enhances emotional impact.

  • Realism & Idealism: Inclusivity of human suffering depicted through meticulous details.

  • Pyramidal Composition: Guides the viewer’s gaze, creating depth.

  • Tenebrism: Strong contrasts to dramatize the tragic event.

Historical Relevance and Reception

  • Géricault’s works were deeply political, critiquing the failures of the monarchy.

  • Audience reactions at the French Salon were mixed; shocked and stirred by the grim realism.

  • Critics varied from praising the artistry to deriding the subject matter.

  • The painting served not only as art but as a means of social commentary, prompting public reflection on the tragedy.