French Painting Styles: Neoclassicism, Romanticism, and Realism
Classified in Music
Written at on 
English with a size of 2.98 KB.
Neoclassical Painting in France (Late 18th-19th Century)
Neoclassical painting in France extended well into the nineteenth century, sometimes blurring the lines between classicism and romanticism. Characteristics: Absence of motion, emphasis on drawing, patronage by the upper classes, and academic style. Key Artists:
- David: The most representative Neoclassical painter, known for balanced compositions and his role as the painter of the French Revolution and Napoleon. Famous works include The Assassination of Marat and The Coronation of Napoleon.
- Gros: Also a painter of Napoleon, depicting the emperor's deeds. Notable works include Napoleon Visiting the Plague Victims of Jaffa.
- Ingres: A bourgeois artist trained in Italy, primarily known for portraits and female nudes, sometimes showing Romantic influences. A key work is The Turkish Bath.
Romanticism in France (Early-Mid 19th Century)
Prominent Romantic painters were often trained in Neoclassical workshops. Romanticism opposed Neoclassicism, connecting with the values of Baroque painting. Key Principles: Individualism, subjective representation of landscapes, and the exploration of private life. Characteristics: Emphasis on color, the cult of the landscape, dynamic compositions, and frequent depictions of political revolutions. Key Artists and Themes:
- Géricault: Known for his dramatic and tragic themes, influenced by Caravaggio and Baroque painting. His works often depict war, disasters, and portraits of the mentally ill. A famous example is The Raft of the Medusa.
- Delacroix: The most important French Romantic painter, known for his expressive use of color and depictions of historical and political events. His masterpiece is Liberty Leading the People.
Realism in France (Mid-Late 19th Century)
Realism emerged as a reaction against Romanticism, focusing on concrete reality. Realist artists avoided idealization, depicting people in their everyday lives and work, often highlighting themes of fatigue and labor. Key Artists:
- Millet: Associated with rural life and landscapes, a key member of the Barbizon School. His works often depict peasants and agricultural scenes. Important paintings include The Gleaners and The Angelus. He influenced Van Gogh.
- Daumier: One of the best caricaturists of his time, known for his satirical depictions of social and political issues. His work The Third-Class Carriage is a notable example.
- Courbet: A controversial painter who depicted ordinary people and scenes realistically, often on a large scale. A significant work is The Painter's Studio.