Rococo and Neo-Classical Art

Rococo History 1717 – 1767 Originated in France Term coined by on of David’s pupils Comes from the word rocaille – type of interior ornamental stone work – Was meant as a humorous insult mocking the supposed triviality of the aristocratic style. Was viewed as a thin, and lightweight form and not as serious art by contemporaries.

Rococo Characteristics Closely associated with the Reign of Louis XV Portrayed the French aristocracy at play. Light hearted Portrayed the Decorative and ornamental Concentrated on scrollwork, shell motifs and cherubs. Focus on the female nude, boudoir with women in compromising positions or sexually aggressive poses.

Prominent Artists Jean-Antoine Watteau ( ) Francois Boucher ( ) Jean-Honore Fragonard ( )

Pilgrimage to the Island of Cythera – Watteau (1717)

Diana Bathing – Boucher 1742

Mademoiselle O’Murphy – Boucher 1751

Madame De Pompadour – Boucher (1758)

The Swing – Fragonard (1767)

Neo- Classicalism History Born out of the Rejection of Rococo Originated in Rome Fueled by an increase in knowledge of ancient art partly because of new archeological discoveries in Rome and the discovery of Herculaneum and Pompeii.

Neo- Classicalism Characteristics Neo = New Inspired by Greek and Roman history, literature, and myth. Conveyed serious topics – Morality – Justice – Honor – Patriotism Focused on simplicity, order and clarity. Mirrored much of the ideals of the Enlightenment. Shares some traits with Romantic art which begins in the same era. (Later Discussion)

Prominent Artists Jacques-Louis David ( )

The Intervention of the Sabine Women – David 1794

The Oath of Horatii – David 1785

The Death of Marat – David 1793

Napoleon Crossing the Alps – David 1801