Neoclassicism

Period: 1750 – 1850

Characteristics: Adherence to classical themes and styles, emphasis on order and symmetry, idealised realism

Events: The American Revolution (1775-1783), the French Revolution (1789-1799), and the Industrial Revolution (around 1760-1840)

A new art movement called Neoclassicism emerged from the mid-18th to the mid-19th century. This movement marked a significant shift from Rococo’s decorative and lighthearted themes towards a reconnection with the ancient worlds of Greece and Rome. Neoclassicism embodied Enlightenment ideals and promoted clarity, reason, moral virtue, and an enthusiastic reverence for the classical past. Its visual language was characterized by simplicity, symmetry, and grandeur.

It’s important to note that while both Neoclassicism and the Renaissance drew their inspiration from the ancient worlds, there were distinct differences in their approach and output. The Renaissance, which preceded Neoclassicism by a few centuries, marked a rebirth of interest in classical learning and values. Renaissance artists focused on the individual, humanism, and the natural world. They experimented with new techniques, such as perspective and chiaroscuro. They often imbued their works with a sense of emotion and vitality.

On the other hand, Neoclassicism, born from the Age of Enlightenment, rediscovered classical aesthetics and returned to its principles of order, symmetry, and simplicity. Neoclassical artists embraced a more intellectual and disciplined approach, stressing moral virtue, civic duty, and the societal over the individual. Their works often featured grand themes from history and mythology, delivered with a pronounced sense of drama and solemnity. While the Renaissance celebrated man, nature, and life, Neoclassicism celebrated society, order, and reason.

In this blog post, we will delve into the origins of Neoclassicism, explore the defining traits of its varied forms, including painting, sculpture, and architecture, and understand its lasting impact on the art world.

Origins of Neoclassicism

The mid-18th century was a time of great artistic and cultural upheaval. One of the most significant events that influenced the neoclassical movement was the rediscovery of Pompeii and Herculaneum. These Roman cities, buried for centuries under volcanic ash and pumice after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, revealed a treasure trove of incredible artefacts, paintings, and buildings when finally excavated. These discoveries’ sheer magnitude and beauty left people in awe, sparking a revival of classical art and architecture.

It’s no wonder that the classical art and architecture of Ancient Greece and Rome profoundly impacted artists and thinkers of that time. These classical elements were seen to revive the ideals of ancient Greece and Rome, which were perceived as the epitome of beauty, order, and reason. The neoclassical style quickly caught on among the ruling classes in Europe and America, who saw it as a way to express their power and wealth through classical motifs.

The neoclassical movement was not just about aesthetics; it was a cultural phenomenon that championed the values of the Enlightenment. Reason, rationality, and scientific inquiry were considered essential to societal progress, and the neoclassical style was seen as a powerful tool for embodying these values in art and thereby promoting them to a wider audience.

Some of the most famous neoclassical painters, like Jacques-Louis David and Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, were inspired by the classical Greek and Roman art they saw while travelling to Italy. They sought to depict heroic and idealized figures in their paintings, often using classical themes and motifs to convey their message. Their works were highly influential and helped to establish the neoclassical style as a dominant artistic movement in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

While artists played a significant role in the neoclassical movement, it was also shaped by scholars like Johann Joachim Winckelmann. This German art historian and archaeologist was instrumental in promoting the study of classical art and architecture. His publication, The History of Ancient Art (1764), became a seminal work, sparking a renewed interest in classical art and providing a theoretical framework for the neoclassical style. Many neoclassical artists sought to emulate the classical ideals he championed in their works, further solidifying the movement’s influence.

Characteristics of Neoclassical Art

Neoclassicism emphasised precision, discipline, and a return to classical themes. The neoclassical artists’ inspiration can be seen in every brush stroke and chisel. However, neoclassicism wasn’t just about nostalgia for the past. It was also a reflection of the enlightened ideals of the era, which emphasised intellect, order, and refinement. So, the next time you come across a neoclassical artwork, take a moment to appreciate its complex interplay of history, culture, and artistic expression.

Neoclassical Paintings

Neoclassical paintings are characterised by their emphasis on line and form over colour. They typically feature subjects from historical events, mythology, and literature from the ancient world, depicted in heroic poses reminiscent of ancient statues of Greece and Rome. The paintings are meticulously crafted, with every element of the composition carefully considered for order, harmony, and balance. This meticulous attention to detail and the discipline it requires reflect the dedication and precision of the neoclassical artists, making their works a testament to their skill and commitment.

Jacques-Louis David’s The Death of Socrates is a masterpiece that epitomises the Neoclassical movement’s philosophy. The painting reinterprets a pivotal historical moment with vivid realism and measured drama. The simple lines, controlled colours, and meticulous attention to detail are evident in the folds of the clothing, and the stoic expressions of the characters highlight the Neoclassical emphasis on discipline and order.

Socrates’ unflinching acceptance of death underscores the movement’s promotion of moral virtue and civic duty. The stoic philosopher becomes an emblem of moral courage, offering a didactic narrative that aligns with Enlightenment ideals. The painting is a powerful example of how Neoclassical art brought ancient history to life in a way that inspired and educated its viewers.

Neoclassical Sculptures

Neoclassical sculptures, often hewn from marble or bronze, exude a timeless and noble aura. Their hallmark is the flowing robes, reminiscent of Roman dignitaries, a stylistic element known as drapery. The precision in their forms, a testament to the Neoclassical pursuit of perfection and beauty, accentuates the dignity and heroism of the human form, leaving the viewer in awe of the craftsmanship. 

One of the most celebrated artists of the Neoclassical era was Antonio Canova, whose masterpiece Psyche Revived by Cupid’s Kiss embodies the hallmarks of the aesthetic. In comparison to other Neoclassical sculptures, Canova’s work stands out for its intricate detailing and emotional depth. The sculpture tells the timeless love story of Cupid, the god of love, reviving his lover Psyche. Canova’s ability to bring the figures to life in marble is nothing short of breathtaking. The detailed carving of the figures, combined with the intricate folds of the drapery, displays a deep appreciation of the human form that echoes the sculptures of ancient Greece and Rome. 

Yet, it is not solely the technical prowess that elevates this sculpture. Psyche Revived by Cupid’s Kiss is revered for its elegant form, dynamic composition, and, most importantly, its emotional resonance. The tender moment between the two figures is not just captured, but it seems to breathe life into the sculpture, evoking a profound sense of connection and emotion in the viewer.

Neoclassical Architecture

Neoclassical architecture, born in the late 18th century, was a revolutionary movement that redefined the principles of simplicity, symmetry, and proportion. It emerged as a response to the excesses of the Baroque and Rococo styles, which were seen as too ornate and extravagant. Neoclassicism, in contrast, sought to revive the classical architectural forms of ancient Greece and Rome, emphasising clean lines, geometric shapes, and a sense of balance. This new approach to architecture created magnificent structures that fascinated and inspired people of the time. Imagine walking down a street lined with majestic edifices adorned with grand columns, intricate pediments, and detailed friezes – it would be a sight to behold!

The era of Neoclassicism saw the birth of stunning public buildings designed not just to beautify cityscapes but also to instil a profound sense of civic pride among citizens. The Panthéon in Paris, a masterpiece by Jacques-Germain Soufflot, is a perfect example of this style’s grandeur and balanced elegance. Its towering Corinthian columns and grand dome stand as a tangible embodiment of the Enlightenment’s faith in human reason and the idea of progress, connecting us to the historical context.

In the New World, the United States Capitol Building stands tall, a reflection of the democratic ideals that formed the bedrock of the Enlightenment period. Its majestic dome and classical entrance are a testament to the fledgling nation’s ambition to mirror the civic virtues of the Roman Republic. The building’s harmonious symmetry and proportional balance echo the aesthetic sensibilities of classical times, making it a sight to behold for anyone who values history and architecture and inspiring us with its symbolism.

Conclusion

Neoclassicism was founded on the principles of the Enlightenment and the beauty of antiquity, but it continues to shape our understanding of art to this day. The simplicity, symmetry, and emphasis on human values that defined Neoclassicism remain as relevant as ever, as a timeless reminder of the power of understated elegance.

Neoclassicism wasn’t just about aesthetics. It was also a political and social commentary. As a bridge between Rococo’s flamboyance and Romanticism’s emotional expression, Neoclassicism illustrated the complex intertwining of art, politics, and society. Its influence can still be felt in our modern world, making it an important chapter in the history of art.