The Rise of Neoclassicism: Stages, Ideals, and the Role of Art Academies

The Rise of Neoclassicism: Ideals and Development

Core Characteristics and Philosophical Foundations

Neoclassicism emerged as an intellectual rejection of the Rococo style, seeking to revive Greco-Roman antiquity. Originating in Italy, the ultimate goal of this movement was the creation of a perfect society through classical values such as reason and morality, thereby showcasing the splendor of an orderly, free, and dignified society.

The Two Stages of Neoclassicism

The development of Neoclassicism occurred in two distinct stages:

Stage One: The Roman Genesis (1755)

The first stage emerged in Rome in 1755 and was represented by two pivotal figures:

• Johann Joachim Winckelmann: Considered the father of archaeology and art history. Winckelmann became a Catholic to occupy the place of librarian and curator of Italian Greco-Roman antiquities. The publication of his book, Reflections on the Imitation of Painting and Sculpture of the Greeks, established the aesthetic ideas of the new style.
• Anton Raphael Mengs: A painter and essayist. As a painter, he championed clarity and precision. As a theorist, he argued in a treatise that art was superior to nature.

Stage Two: International Acceptance (1770)

The second phase of Neoclassicism began around 1770 and was marked by the international acceptance of Mengs' principles, primarily disseminated through the burgeoning network of academies.

The Transformative Role of Art Academies

Academies were crucial in elevating the status of the arts. They ensured that painting, sculpture, and architecture were no longer considered mechanical trades but were transformed into noble “liberal arts.” This shift allowed the artist to evolve into an independent professional. These institutions were often supported by the State and governed by an academic faculty.

The Academic Education System

The education system was based on a rigorous program of three courses for admitted candidates:

1. The Early Room: Students first learned to loosen their hand by copying simple anatomical parts.
2. The Cast and Dummy Room: Students copied plaster casts of classical statuary and were instructed in the treatment of drapery.
3. The Live Model Room (in vivo): The final course involved painting a nude body. Those who exceeded this stage were considered certified artists.

Architectural Legacy and Key Institutions

Architects, who projected buildings, were educated with devotion to the neoclassical scholar Palladio. This focus led to the movement known as Neopalladianism, which significantly enriched major European cities and American architecture.

Academies of fine arts achieved great prestige across Europe. Some of the most prominent institutions that offered courses to encourage young artists included:

• Academia de San Lucas (Rome)
• Académie Royale (France)
• Royal Academy (London)
• Academia de San Fernando (Madrid)