Classicism
Art Fortune | Art Styles
circa (BC 3000 – AD 1600)
Classicism refers to the appreciation and imitation of Greek and Roman literature, art, and architecture. The principles of classicism were derived from the practices and guidelines of the ancients, and the term has come to refer to the observance of specific academic canons.
Classical art includes antiquity and later works inspired by it, the latter normally referred to as Neoclassical. Observance of traditional aesthetic formalities was favored over expressionism and individuality. Classic art is characterized by clarity, order, balance, unity, symmetry and dignity, and is typically formal and restrained.
The first major revival of classicism was during the Renaissance resulting from a fresh interest in Roman and Greek culture. Again in the 18th century the interest in classicism was sparked by the discovery of Herculaneum and Pompeii; this period is defined as neoclassicism and is considered to be beginning of the romantic period.
The style’s leading artists included Michelangelo, Raphael, Correggio, and Mantegna during the Renaissance and Mengs and Winckelman during the Neoclassical period.
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