home | art | art history | 18th c. | neoclassical

 Neoclassical Art History - Introduction

The Neoclassical style in art history is primarily associated with the Eighteenth century. Some scholars have suggested that Neoclassicism was in vogue between the years circa 1750-1820, but it is important to remember that styles in art are fluid and seldom bound by specific dates.

This style, which was called Neoclassical only after the fact, was influenced by several factors. One of these influences was an artistic reaction against the frivolities and excesses of the Rococo period. Another was the mid 18th century discovery in of two ancient Roman cities - Herculaneum and Pompeii. These cities housed a hidden horde of ancient artifacts and art objects, the design of which created immediate interest in things Greek and Roman. Ultimately, artists combined fashion, politics, and a passion for antiquity to produce the Neoclassical style.

 Neoclassical Architects

Robert Adam | The important British designer Robert Adam defined the Neoclassical style, which is evident in his exquisite works of architecture and furniture.

Claude-Nicolas Ledoux | Brilliant, eccentric, and visionary - these words perhaps best characterize this important Neoclassical architect, as his daring designs often defy description.

 Neoclassical Painters

Jacques-Louis David | David was one of the most influential - and prolific - Neoclassical artists; his severe, uncompromising style, ability to capture dramatic moments, and incredible talent as a painter have made him an art legend.

Joseph-Marie Vien | Another accomplished Neoclassical painter, Vien took the occasional detour into the lighter side of Neoclassical art, with paintings such as the charming Cupid Seller.

 Neoclassical Sculptors

Antonio Canova | Canova's works of sculpture are some of the finest achievements of the Neoclassical style - examples are his masterpiece Cupid and Psyche and the splendid Paulina Borghese as Venus Victrix.

 Neoclassical Artists - Decorative Arts

Josiah Wedgwood | This British potter was responsible for the development of ceramics inspired by Neoclassical design, including the successful jasperware line and the famous copy of the Portland Vase.

Search Loggia
Find information on art, artists, and the history of art!
 
For best results, use lower case queries in Altavista's syntax... search help!

Neoclassicism

This beautiful book is a part of the Phaidon Art & Ideas series, and as the title suggests, it covers the topic of Neoclassicism. Author David Irwin has some fascinating chapters, including "The Lure of Italy and Beyond: The Grand Tour", "From Achilles to Wolfe: The Painting of History", and the brilliantly named "Eating your Ice under a Grecian Group: Living with Neoclassicism".

Have a question about art and art history? Visit the Loggia Forums to share your thoughts about these topics in engaging discussions about the arts.

Enter your e-mail address to receive our newsletter about art, architecture, and design!
 
subscribe
unsubscribe

Privacy Statement
Gardner's Art Through the Ages

This book is the classic reference for the study of art. It features a history of artists and their works, as well as lucid and engaging descriptions of the styles and periods of art history. Highly recommended for both students and scholars.


[ Home | Art | About Loggia | Cite Loggia | Support This Site | Link to Loggia | Privacy | Contact Us! ]

Copyright © 1997-2008 Loggia.com. All rights reserved.
No part of this website, including text and images, may be reproduced or copied in any form
or by any means without the express prior written permission of Loggia.com.


Search Loggia Home Books and Resources Loggia | Exploring the Arts and Humanities! Support This Site