Neoclassicism: the Empire style

Annotations:

• Artistic styles in the late 18th century and early 19th century reflected aspects of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Empire. The Empire style was a variant of Neoclassicism that emerged during the Napoleonic Empire.

1. DATES
   1. It emerged during the Napoleonic Empire
   2. It lasted from roughly 1800 to 1820
2. INFLUENCE
   1. Enlightenment ideas

      Annotations:

      • During this period, Enlightenment ideas continued to influence culture.
   2. Neoclassicism predominant artistic style

      Annotations:

      • Neoclassicism continued to be the predominant artistic style.
   3. Napoleon's personal aesthetic tastes

      Annotations:

      • Its main characteristics reflected Napoleon's personal aesthetic tastes.
3. ARCHITECTURE

   Annotations:

   • Empire style was a form of imperialist propaganda. It served to publicise the emperor's military victories, as well as his other achivements.
   1. Commemorative arches

      Annotations:

      • Commemorative arches and columns, similar to those of the Roman Empire, became popular. (The picture shows the "Arc du Carroussel"; another excellent example is the "Arc de Triomphe" in Paris, designed by Chalgrin)
   2. Columns

      Annotations:

      • Commemorative arches and columns, similar to those of the Roman Empire, became popular.
4. SCULPTURE

   Annotations:

   • The defining characteristics of the Empire style were simple forms and decorations that imitated classical Greek and Roman styles. Sculptures were usually made of white marble, and represented mythological themes or famous people. (Illustration: "Paulina Bonaparte", by Antonio Canova. 1805-1808)
5. PAINTING

   Annotations:

   • Historical and mythological themes were predominant. There were also many portraits of famous people. "Cupid and Psyche", by Gérard, is a good example of mythological theme. (The illustration shows a historical theme, "The coronation of Napoleon, by David).