"Neoclassicism is a broad term for the artistic tradition whose artists reacted against Rococo art by embracing simplicity and geometric purity"
France Neoclassicism depicted a new way of constructing art in relation to a new way of governing the country. The style art-equals-politics emerged during the Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette period. "Known as gout grec, or Greek taste, the first Neoclassical iteration occurred in the final decades of the the French monarchy, or ancient regime." The characteristics of the the French Neoclassic, design style included: simpler materials, a lack of applied surface ornamentation, symmetry and pure forms.
French furniture during this period consisted of of straight lines with the back being squared and slightly vertical. Georges Jacob, a furniture designer, created many furniture pieces, these include, the Louis XVI Neoclassical armchair.
George Jacobs, Louis XVI armchair, 1770.
Throughout time furniture pieces during this period, became more austre, with even straighter lines and simpler patterns. An example of this was the Louis XVI side chair (no arms).
Louis XVI side chair.
As time continues within this period, not only does furniture change but also its leadership. Napoleon became emperor in 1804 and his style became known as the Empire. Both the Empire and the Directorate style previously was known for its use of details. This included light profiles and complexity. A famous artist during this section of the period, David. His work was simple yet very complex. His work is seen throughout this period.
Jacques-Louis David. Madame Recamier.
I really enjoyed looking at this section of the French Renaissance, specifically the furniture!
Current Applications
Peer Review!
In general it was interesting to review individuals blogs on the different periods within the French Renaissance. I reviewed Nicole and Stephanie blog.
Nicole's blog did a great job of giving the overview the French Renaissance, I enjoyed how she focused on the different architectural elements of this period. I also reviewed Stephanie's blog, I really enjoyed her take on the French Renaissance, describing it as "The French Renaissance was a time where the "royal taste" determined the style of the rest of the country and even world". She also did a great job at showing different architectural places within this period. I also enjoyed, how she compared the French Renaissance style to modern homes today.
Video!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziIJgA3ZbPg
No comments:
Post a Comment