neoclàssic

Neoclassical is a term used to describe a revival of the styles and spirit of classical antiquity, particularly ancient Greece and Rome, that emerged in the mid-18th century. This artistic and intellectual movement was a reaction against the perceived excesses and frivolity of the preceding Baroque and Rococo styles. Neoclassicism emphasized reason, order, clarity, and a return to what were considered fundamental principles of art and architecture.

In painting and sculpture, Neoclassical artists drew inspiration from ancient Roman frescoes and Greek sculptures, often depicting historical or mythological subjects with a sense of grandeur and moral purpose. Figures were typically rendered with idealized forms and a restrained emotional expression. Key artists associated with this movement include Jacques-Louis David and Antonio Canova.

Architecturally, Neoclassicism manifested in buildings characterized by symmetry, grand scale, and the use of classical elements such as columns, pediments, and domes. Public buildings, in particular, were often designed in this style to convey authority and stability. Examples can be found in structures like the Pantheon in Paris and the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin.

The Neoclassical movement also extended to literature, music, and decorative arts, promoting themes of patriotism, civic virtue, and rationality. It influenced educational reforms and political thought, reflecting a broader Enlightenment desire for order and progress. The emphasis on ancient models provided a framework for understanding and reforming society.