Neoclassicism, Benjamin West, and Cupid

Type :

Term papers

Pages :

3 pages

Format :

.doc

Published date :

09/24/2009

Category :

Arts & media

Sub category :

Arts and art history

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Summary :

Introduction
Neoclassical influence in the paintings era
The work of Benjamin West
Other leading painters of the Neoclassical period
Conclusion
Bibliography

Abstract

The Neoclassical art movement began in Europe in the late 1700s and lasted into the early 1800s. The movement was inspired in part by the public interest in ancient artifacts found in the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum - a sensational discovery at the time, which galvanized the art world of Europe. neoclassicism quickly began to challenge and replace the overblown artwork of the baroque and rococo styles. This movement took as canon the classical elements of ancient Greek and Roman art and architecture, building upon this foundation in a controlled manner to create new versions of those aspects and themes. The style included symmetrical lines and proportions in architectural features, flowing robes and draperies on classically posed figures, and incorporated the symbology and meanings of ancient myth and legend. The early neoclassical period, called the Federal period in America, favored rectilinear forms, delicate ornamentation, and showed a fascination with geometry.