Neoclassical Art: Architects, Sculptors and Painters
Neoclassical Architecture, Sculpture and Painting
| Architecture | Sculpture | Painting |
|---|---|---|
| Jacques-Germain Soufflot, Pantheon | Antonio Canova — delicate and graceful sculptures | Jacques-Louis David — inspired by Roman sculpture |
| Karl Langhans, Brandenburg Gate | ||
| Spain | ||
| Rodríguez, V.: Cibeles Fountain | José Madrazo — director of the Prado Museum | |
| Villanueva, J. de: Prado Museum | Anton R. Mengs — thanks to Carlos III, he promoted this style | |
Francisco de Goya: Life and Artistic Periods
Biography
Francisco de Goya
- Court painter during the reigns of Carlos IV, Joseph I and Fernando VII.
- Became deaf after an illness.
- Final years in Bordeaux.
- Three main periods in his career.
A. Court Period
- Cartoons for tapestries made in the royal factory: The Grape Harvest, The Dance of San Antonio de la Florida.
- Portraits of the royal family and nobility: The Family of Carlos IV.
- Religious paintings: frescoes in the Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida, in Madrid.
- Prints from etchings: Los Caprichos.
- Use of pastel colours, such as pinks and blues, and a sense of depth.
- Depiction of people’s psychological characteristics.
- Special attention to details of clothing and fabric.
- Depictions of popular festivals and the miracles of St. Anthony.
- Criticism of Spanish customs.
B. The Spanish War of Independence
- Historical themes: The 2nd of May 1808 and The 3rd of May 1808.
- Prints from engravings: The Disasters of War, The Tauromaquia and Los Desastres (the Disparates).
- Variety of different poses with lots of action.
- Protests against war and its horrific consequences.
- Criticism of the Ancient Régime.
- Depictions of bullfighting themes.
C. Retirement, Estate Life and Exile in France
- Black Paintings: Two Old Men Eating Soup and Fight with Cudgels.
- Bordeaux paintings: The Milkmaid of Bordeaux.
- Reflections on old age and death.
- Dark colors and night scenes.
- Depictions of daily life.
- Loose brush strokes and less defined figures.