Realist subject matter and intentions dominated avant garde art mid-century, but by 1869 a concern with optical realism, rather than realist topics asserted itself. Impressionism emerged as an alternative mode of painting after the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71. It challenged the academic rules regarding elevated subjects, accurate anatomy, modeling with light and shade and the use of linear perspective. Subjects reflecting urban life in newly renovated Paris became popular. At the same time the great French sculptor Rodin revitalized the sculptural tradition and paved the way for a truly modern approach to the human figure.
In England painters looked to nature or literary themes in an attempt to reform painting. Members of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood attempted to revive moralizing art while the Americans Homer and Eakins nurtured a realist aesthetic.
After reading this chapter you should be able to:
- document the Realist's concern with the heroism of modern life.
- describe the stylistic and technical aspects of Impressionism.
- name the important Impressionistic artists and their principal works.
- identify the artists who formed the American Barbizon School.
- understand how the Impressionist aesthetic influenced sculpture.
- describe the importance of iron in nineteenth century architecture.
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