Late 19th century

Definition

The late 19th century refers to the period from the 1870s to the turn of the 20th century, marked by significant social, political, and artistic changes. This era saw the rise of industrialization, urbanization, and new ideologies, which greatly influenced art movements, particularly in Europe. In this context, artists began to explore innovative techniques and styles that broke away from traditional approaches, paving the way for modern art.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The late 19th century was a time of rapid technological advancements, such as the invention of photography and improvements in paint production, which influenced artists' approaches.
2. Social changes during this time included shifts in class structures and increased awareness of social issues like poverty and labor rights, impacting artistic themes.
3. Art institutions began to change, with more galleries showcasing contemporary works rather than adhering strictly to academic standards.
4. This era set the stage for new movements like Post-Impressionism, as artists sought to express emotions and ideas beyond mere visual representation.
5. The globalization of art occurred during the late 19th century as artists traveled and exchanged ideas across countries, leading to diverse influences in their work.

Review Questions

• How did the social changes in the late 19th century influence artistic movements like Impressionism?
  • The social changes during the late 19th century played a crucial role in shaping artistic movements such as Impressionism. As urbanization increased and industrialization transformed society, artists responded by focusing on everyday life and capturing the effects of modernity. This shift allowed them to move away from traditional subjects and instead portray scenes of leisure and the vibrancy of city life, reflecting the dynamic changes in their environment.
• In what ways did advancements in technology during the late 19th century impact artistic expression?
  • Advancements in technology during the late 19th century had a profound impact on artistic expression. The invention of portable paint tubes allowed artists to work outdoors more easily, leading to a more spontaneous approach to painting. Additionally, photography emerged as a new medium that challenged traditional forms of representation, prompting artists to explore new styles and techniques that emphasized perception over realism. This technological shift fostered innovation and experimentation within art.
• Evaluate the significance of the late 19th century as a transitional period for modern art movements.
  • The late 19th century is significant as a transitional period for modern art movements due to its radical departures from previous artistic conventions. During this time, artists began embracing individual expression and subjective experience rather than adhering strictly to realistic representation. This openness to new ideas set the foundation for movements such as Post-Impressionism and later Modernism. The exploration of color theory, perspective shifts, and emotional depth led to an expansion of what art could convey, influencing generations of artists to come.

Related terms

Impressionism: An art movement that emerged in the late 19th century, characterized by loose brushwork, light color palettes, and a focus on capturing the effects of light and atmosphere.

Modernism: A broad cultural movement that began in the late 19th century, emphasizing new ideas, experimentation, and a break from classical forms in art, literature, and architecture.

Industrial Revolution: A period of major industrialization that took place during the late 18th and throughout the 19th century, profoundly transforming economies, societies, and artistic expressions.