Reaalajased

Reaalajased, also known as realists, are a group of artists who emerged in the late 19th century, primarily in France. They were a reaction against the idealism and romanticism of the previous era, focusing instead on the depiction of everyday life, often with a critical and sometimes cynical perspective. The term "reaalajased" is derived from the French word "réaliste," which means "realist."

The realists sought to portray the world as it truly is, rather than as it should be or as it is perceived through romanticized lenses. They often depicted the struggles and hardships of the working class, the poor, and the marginalized, challenging the prevailing social norms and the status quo. This critical approach to society was a significant departure from the more idealistic and often escapist themes of previous artistic movements.

Key figures of the realist movement include Gustave Courbet, who is often credited with founding the movement with his painting "The Stone Breakers" (1849), and Honoré Daumier, whose satirical works often critiqued the social and political issues of his time. The realists also included photographers, writers, and other artists who contributed to the broader cultural movement.

The realist movement had a profound impact on the development of modern art and literature. It laid the groundwork for subsequent movements that continued to explore the complexities of everyday life, such as naturalism, social realism, and the realism of the 20th century. Despite its critical stance, the realist movement also celebrated the beauty and resilience of the human condition, offering a more grounded and relatable perspective on the world.