Classicism appeared in European art in the 17th century. It existed, constantly evolving, until the 19th century. During this period, the direction has gone through several stages:
- Early classicism.
- Strict classicism.
- High classicism (empire).
The definition of classicism initially concerned architecture, but later it also affected the fields of literature, painting, sculpture and other areas of art. This style replaced the pompous and pretentious Rococo, and the empire, in turn, was replaced by eclecticism, even softer and simplified.
Architecture
The definition of classicism in architecture is made primarily on the basis of such distinctive features of the design of buildings as the predominance of combinations of white with rich and vibrant colors, for example, gold, pink, bright blue, green, emerald. Lines in classicism play an important role. They are strict, repeated in the ornament with a certain pace and regularity, facades and other elements are symmetrical, the drawing is generalized.
The forms are clear, well readable, geometric. The general impression of buildings and elements is strength, stability, monumentality, geometricity.
Characteristics in architecture
Distinctive features and elements by which a structure in this style can be recognized: bas-reliefs, medallions inscribed in a circle, without undue complication, statues can be installed on the roof. In landscape design, as well as the design of terraces, classic rotundas and colonnades are often found. The columns are large, non-smooth. Pilasters are not complicated and not too richly decorated. This is generally a characteristic feature of the style - restrained and moderate decor. Often there are statues on buildings and near them, in gardens and in the interior. Ornaments are close in their motives to antique. And this is logical, given that the classicism style grew out of the characteristic directions of the Renaissance. High classicism (empire), which was born in France during the reign of Napoleon I, is characterized by military motifs in the decor, emblems, emblems and other symbols of power.
Most accurately, the definition of classicism includes many works by architects such as Claude-Nicola Ledoux, Inigo Jones, Andrea Palladio. The most typical buildings: Villa Rotonda, Osterli Park, Customs Outpost, Fleming Library.
Design
The definition of classicism in design is made according to the characteristic features presented below. Primary colors: beige, white, gray. The lines are usually straight, many axes, plant ornaments. Geometric shapes: cubes, rectangles, parallelepipeds. Often there are porticoes, columns, colonnades. The windows are rectangular, elongated, narrow and tall. The doors are also rectangular, narrow and tall, in a massive portal, often gable. The characteristic elements are columns, sculptures, friezes, antique motifs, spiers, obelisks. Distinctive features - rigor, simplicity and sophistication in everything. Based on these characteristics, it is already possible to give a style a definition.
Classicism in design is most fully represented in the works of the Scottish Robert Adam, who, however, understood it quite peculiarly, for which he was repeatedly persecuted by his fellow contemporaries. But the aristocracy of that time enthusiastically accepted its interiors, which were almost as inferior in pomp and sophistication to Rococo. Adam unequivocally refused any elements that, playing only an aesthetic role, did not carry any functional load.
Typical Design Elements
The furniture of the interiors of this style is solid, durable and status, clearly speaking about the position of the owner in society, but not "screaming" about it. It was made from precious wood. At that time, they generally became fashionable in the interior. Mahogany with bronze trim has become the most sought after. The emphasis on the texture of wood also became popular, carved panels and inserts on various furniture elements and walls were often used. The decor was made by expensive but simple enough elements. The lines became more straightforward, the shapes became simpler. The legs of the furniture were straight, the surfaces more even. Fabrics are also expensive: velvet, satin. Often they are decorated with floral patterns. Chandeliers and lamps, suitable for the definition of classicism, massive, but decorated with crystal pendants. The interior has a lot of porcelain, mirrors, crystal, glass.
World literature
Francois de Mahlerb was the first to apply the features of the classicism style in literature. The direction in this area can be determined on the basis of poetic canons developed by the famous Frenchman. Unpopular genres such as fable, satire and comedy reached their heyday in this period. The main motive in the dramatic works of that era was the conflict between the inner feelings and desires of a person and his social duty. Prose is characterized by the latinization used in syntax.
In fact, classicism in literature has become a reflection of all the ideas of the Enlightenment. Its definition can be given based on the work of Voltaire. He created works in which the main value is a free man with his feelings and emotions. Religious themes recede into the background. Moreover, in some works she is even criticized.
The purpose of the literature of this style is to improve the world, change it for the better, reorganize and reorganize in accordance with the laws of classicism.
Russian literature
Classicism introduced Lomonosov into Russian literature. He developed the "three calm" theory, which became an adaptation of Mahlerba's rules. The works that fit the definition of classicism in Russian literature were created by Fonvizin, Kantemir, Derzhavin and Lomonosov proper.
Like European, Russian classicism developed under the influence of the ideas of the Enlightenment. Equality and social justice were paramount. The human person was deprived of specific and individual traits, and was a combination of permanent characteristics that personified any social or spiritual forces.
Painting
The work most fully suited to the definition of classicism in this area is Rafael's Athenian School. She fully reveals all the properties of this concept in painting. The trend here is based on a rigorous study and systematization of the works of Renaissance artists. Created works on antique themes: both real and everyday, and mythological.
Excavations of Pompeii helped artists become acquainted with genuine antique art. This changed the definition of classicism in the visual arts, breathing new breath into it. In many countries of the world this phenomenon is called neoclassicism.