Nineteenth Century Realism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Nineteenth Century Realism - Essay Example The realists democratized art through the depiction of modern subjects from the common people, mostly the working class. The basis of realism was the direct observation of people’s lives as opposed to idealized classicism of art and the themes forming the basis of Romanticism. This paper shall discuss three works of art created during the period of Realism, with emphasis on European art. Gustave Coubert was one of the strongest proponents of Realism. He secured his place as a pioneer through challenging the art that had for a long time been favored by the state-sponsored academy of art. By extension, Coubert challenged the core of history painting. Coubert painted this work and exhibited it at the Salons de Paris in 1849 and 1850-51. In this work of art, Coubert portrayed common people from his native region on a scale previously reserved for the elevation of themes in painting about history. He used people who were present at the burial. This painting was selected for this st udy because of the message that is sought to pass across to the public. The realism in the 315 by 668 cm oil painting comes through the burial of Coubert’s great uncle. The setting is in Ornans, a small town in France. The painting had a significant effect on the art scene, since it did not have the depictions that most artistes would bring out. This work of art was unique in the sense that it had an unflattering air. Gourmet did not attempt to romanticize the depictions of mourning and grief in this art work.