Major Art Styles: 18th and 19th Century Transformations
18th Century Art Movements
The Persistence of the Baroque
During the 18th century, Baroque art persisted, particularly in Spain. In Architecture, there was a compilation and profusion of ornamentation, especially on facades and interior elements. Notable works include those by Churriguera and Pedro Ribera. In Sculpture, Francisco Salzillo‘s works are significant. His pieces moved away from drama, already hinting at the new Rococo and Classical aesthetics of the second half of the 18th century.
From Rococo to Neoclassicism
Rococo Style
Rococo originated in France and spread throughout Europe. Many intellectuals and artists deemed it superficial and frivolous.
Neoclassicism Principles
Neoclassicism advocated a return to rational thought and classicism. Artists sought the pure beauty of lines, rejecting excessive ornamentation and luxury.
Neoclassical Architecture
This architectural style was inspired by Greek models, with significant Roman contributions. Facades were considered as important as the interiors. Key examples in France include the Madeleine Church and the Arc de Triomphe. In Spain, notable works are the Puerta de Alcalá and the Prado Museum.
Francisco Goya
Francisco Goya was born in Fuendetodos and trained as a painter in Zaragoza. He traveled to Madrid and Italy, completing his artistic education. Upon returning to Zaragoza, he worked with the Bayeu brothers, marrying one of their sisters.
19th Century Art Movements
Romanticism
Emerging in the 19th century, Romanticism spread across Europe. Its core values included a love of freedom, the exaltation of individualism, and the defense of emotion against the rationalism of the previous century. Romantics rejected the models of ancient Greece and Rome, instead proclaiming the Middle Ages as a model and promoting nationalism over universalism. While early Romanticism was distinctly conservative, later forms were liberal and revolutionary. Many Romantic artists actively participated in liberal and national struggles.
Key Romantic Painters and Characteristics
The main features of Romantic painting include:
- Movement
- Color and Light
- Emphasis on Landscape
Prominent Romantic painters include: Théodore Géricault, Eugène Delacroix, Caspar David Friedrich, J.M.W. Turner, Valeriano Bécquer, Pérez Villamil, Mariano Fortuny, and Federico de Madrazo.
The Realist Style
Realist artists focused on depicting the concrete reality of the poor and everyday life. This artistic style change was influenced by several factors:
- The failure of the 1848 revolutions.
- The advancement of industrialization, which exposed significant contradictions and demonstrated that the new system perpetuated misery.
- The 19th-century advancement of science, which emphasized observation and a descriptive approach to understanding reality.
Realist Painting
Realist painting represented a significant innovation. The major difference lay in its themes: everyday life, social problems, and the disillusionment following revolutionary failures. Key artists include: Eduardo Rosales, Joaquín Sorolla, and Ignacio Zuloaga.
19th Century Architecture
Historicist Architecture
Historicist Architecture drew inspiration from rich historical models. While pseudo-classical style buildings continued to be constructed, the influence of Romanticism also became apparent. Known works include the British Parliament and the Opéra de Paris (Palais Garnier).
Architecture of Iron and Cement
This era saw the appearance of new materials and mass production techniques, notably the use of iron, steel, and glass. Furthermore, the demands of industry, communications, and growing towns created a need for functional, practical, spacious, and rapidly constructed buildings and structures.
Impressionism and Post-Impressionism
Characteristics of Impressionism
The basic principle of Impressionism was that the artist should paint not just what he sees, but how he sees it. Painting moved away from grand historical themes to depict landscapes and outdoor scenes. The intention was to capture the impression of light, color, atmosphere, and feelings, showcasing the artist’s subjective vision.
Key Impressionist Artists
- Édouard Manet
- Claude Monet
- Camille Pissarro
- Alfred Sisley
- Edgar Degas
Post-Impressionist Artists
Notable Post-Impressionist artists include: Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Vincent Van Gogh, Paul Cézanne, and Joaquín Sorolla.