Time, Media, and Visuality in Post-Revolutionary France

The French Revolution in 1789 has become a mythic narrative of our time, but the question of what such a temporal transformation might involve found complex, often unresolved expression in visual and material culture. This diverse collection of essays explores the work of genre painters, miniaturists, sign-painters, animal artists, landscapists, architects, and printmakers to offer a new account of the story of French arts modernity.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 280 pages
\n Publication date: 29 July 2021
\n Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
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The French Revolution of 1789, a momentous rupture with the past, has etched itself into the fabric of our collective memory as a legendary tale. However, as the echoes of this transformative era reverberated through subsequent periods of Empire, Restoration, and Republic, the intricacies and complexities of its temporal implications emerged in profound and multifaceted ways. In the realm of visual and material culture, this transformative journey found expression in a rich tapestry of diverse objects and forms.

This captivating collection of essays takes us on a journey through the artistic landscape of France, spanning from the early days of the French Revolution to the final days of the July Monarchy in 1848. It sheds light on the remarkable array of objects and visuality that emerged during this period, offering a fresh perspective on the story of French arts modernity. By delving into the works of genre painters, miniaturists, sign-painters, animal artists, landscapists, architects, and printmakers, the essays explore the profound implications of being "post-revolutionary."

The French Revolution marked a seismic shift in societal norms, values, and artistic expression. It challenged the established order and paved the way for a new era of creativity and innovation. The artists of this time were tasked with navigating the uncharted waters of a rapidly changing world, seeking to redefine the boundaries of art and aesthetics. They experimented with new techniques, styles, and themes, pushing the limits of what was possible in the visual realm.

One of the most notable features of the post-revolutionary era was the emergence of genre painting. Artists such as Jean-Honoré Fragonard, Jacques-Louis David, and Eugène Delacroix embraced this genre, which focused on depicting everyday life and the struggles of the common people. These paintings captured the essence of the revolution, portraying the triumphs and tragedies of the people and the political upheaval that accompanied it.

Miniature painting also flourished during this period, with artists like Marie-Antoinette Poisson and Jean-Baptiste Isabey producing intricate and detailed works that depicted the aristocracy and the bourgeoisie. These paintings were often used as diplomatic gifts, showcasing the wealth and power of the French monarchy.

Sign-painters, who were responsible for creating decorative and informative signs for shops, buildings, and public spaces, also played a significant role in shaping the visual landscape of post-revolutionary France. They used vibrant colors and bold typography to convey messages of political activism, social reform, and cultural pride.

Animal artists, who were often trained in the natural sciences, also contributed to the post-revolutionary artistic scene. They depicted animals in a new light, emphasizing their emotional and psychological aspects rather than their utilitarian value. This genre of art was particularly popular among the upper classes, who appreciated the beauty and complexity of nature.

Landscape painting, another important artistic genre, emerged as a means of capturing the natural beauty of France. Artists like Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Camille Pissarro, and Alfred Sisley used their brushes to depict the rolling hills, serene lakes, and vibrant countryside of France. These paintings not only celebrated the beauty of nature but also served as a tool for political and social commentary, reflecting the changing attitudes towards nature and the environment during this period.

Architecture also played a crucial role in shaping the visual landscape of post-revolutionary France. The architects of this time were influenced by the ideals of the Enlightenment, which emphasized the importance of rationality, order, and functionality. They designed buildings that were both aesthetically pleasing and practical, reflecting the new social and political order that emerged after the revolution.

Printmaking, another important medium of artistic expression, also flourished during this period. Artists like Honoré Daumier, Honoré Mirabeau, and Edgar Degas used their prints to satirize political figures, social institutions, and everyday life. These prints were widely circulated and had a significant impact on public opinion and political discourse.

In conclusion, the French Revolution of 1789 marked a radical break with the past, ushering in a new era of creativity and innovation. The visual and material culture of post-revolutionary France was a reflection of this transformative journey, with a rich array of diverse objects and forms emerging. From genre painting to miniature painting, sign-painters to animal artists, landscape painting to architecture, printmaking to political satire, the artists of this time sought to redefine the boundaries of art and aesthetics, capturing the essence of a rapidly changing world.

\n Weight: 694g\n
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 24 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781501348396\n \n