Esteticismo

Esteticismo is an artistic and intellectual movement that originated in the late 19th century, primarily in England. Its core tenet is the principle of "art for art's sake" (l'art pour l'art), which emphasizes the intrinsic value of art and its separation from moral, social, or political purposes. Proponents of estheticismo believed that art should be judged solely on its aesthetic qualities, such as beauty, form, and sensory pleasure, rather than on any didactic or utilitarian function.

The movement reacted against the prevailing Victorian era's emphasis on morality and utility in art. Esthetes sought to elevate the appreciation of beauty and sensory experience in everyday life, seeing art as a superior form of existence. Key figures associated with estheticismo include Oscar Wilde, Walter Pater, and Aubrey Beardsley. Their work often explored themes of decadence, artificiality, and the pursuit of beauty, sometimes challenging conventional social norms.

Estheticismo influenced various art forms, including literature, painting, and interior design. It contributed to the development of Symbolism and Art Nouveau. While the movement itself waned in popularity by the early 20th century, its emphasis on aesthetic autonomy and the subjective experience of art continued to resonate and shape subsequent artistic developments. The idea that art's primary purpose is to evoke beauty and feeling, independent of external considerations, remains a significant concept in art theory.