Art History Chapter 21: Rococo to Neoclassicism

Study Notes

Cultural Developments in the 18th Century

The 18th century in Europe and America saw the rise of Rococo style, the Enlightenment, and Neoclassicism, reflecting significant socio-political changes.
Rococo style emphasized elegance and intimacy, contrasting with the grand palace culture of the previous century.
Antoine Watteau, a leading Rococo painter, used light colors and delicate lines to portray French high society.

Enlightenment and its Impact

The Enlightenment featured critical thinking, scientific empiricism, and the doctrine of progress, influencing the French and American Revolutions.
Humanism drove individuals to undertake Grand Tours of Italy, rediscovering Classical Antiquity and Renaissance art.
Excavations at Herculaneum and Pompeii contributed to a renewed interest in classical art and culture.

Neoclassicism

Neoclassicism arose as a movement reviving classical forms and themes in art and architecture.
Jacques-Louis David emerged as the prominent French Neoclassical painter, illustrating themes of virtue and heroism.
Richard Boyle's Chiswick House in England is a notable example of Neoclassical architecture inspired by Ancient Rome.
Thomas Jefferson, influenced by Neoclassicism, designed Monticello and the University of Virginia, reflecting civic ideals of the American republic.

Key Terms and Concepts

Ancien Régime: The old social order in France, categorized into three classes.
Femme Savante: Refers to cultured female salon hosts during the Rococo period.
Fête Galante: A Rococo painting genre that portrays outdoor amusements of the upper class.
Grand Manner Portraiture: An 18th-century portrait style emphasizing elegance through composition elements like scale and pose.
Philosophe: Social thinkers in France during the Enlightenment advocating for reason and reform.
Rococo: An ornate style of art and architecture characterized by elaboration, prevalent in 18th-century France.
Rousseau: Philosopher who advocated for the notion of the "natural man," free from societal constraints.
Exemplum Virtutis: Art that conveys moral messages intended to guide the viewer.

Notable Artists and Works

Jean-Honoré Fragonard: Known for the painting "The Swing," exemplifying Rococo style.
John Singleton Copley: Famous for "Paul Revere," which reflects the naturalistic approach of the 18th-century art movement.
Jacques-Louis David: Renowned for "Death of Marat," a quintessential work of Neoclassicism.
Thomas Jefferson: Architect of Monticello, symbolizing Neoclassical architecture in early American identity.

Description

Explore the major cultural developments in Europe and America during the 18th century, focusing on the Rococo style, the Enlightenment, and Neoclassicism. This chapter highlights the socio-political changes that influenced these artistic movements and their unique characteristics.