Romantic Era

 

Romantic Era Realist vs Nationalist Style

         I am going to be comparing the Realist style to the Nationalist style from the Romantic Era during the 1800s. Realism, which I find particularly engaging and attractive, and Nationalism, which does not resonate with me as strongly. 

Realist Works

Realism: Realism style focuses on depicting everyday life and ordinary people with honesty and accuracy. 

     Rosa Bonheur Created this piece in 1849 in France. The elements that stick out to me are the details, Bonheur's attention to the textures of the dog's fur, and the naturalistic setting showcases her meticulous observation of nature. The color, and the muted earth tones enhance the realism and grounding of the subject. Lastly, in form, Bonheur skillfully captures the hound's form by emphasizing the muscular structure and natural contours of its body. I find this painting to evoke a sense of warmth and admiration for the beauty of nature. 

"A Limier Briquet Hound" By Rosa Bonheur 1849
Image source
    "The End of The Working Day" was created by Jules Breton in 1868 in France. This painting fills me with empathy and compassion for the workers along with appreciation of the beauty in the painting itself. The elements I find appealing are, the lighting, the warm glow of the setting sun bathes the scene in a golden hue. Tone, with soft gradations from light to dark that suggest the time of day. Finally depth, through the use of perspective, the foreground figures are depicted larger and more detailed, while the background gradually recedes. 

"The End of The Working Day" by Jules Breton

Image Source

        Nationalist Works       

    Nationalism: In contrast, Nationalism in art often emphasizes national identity and pride, frequently idealizing historical events and figures.

        This work was created by Eugène Delacroix in 1830 in France. The elements of this piece are color, as Delacroix uses bold, vibrant colors, particularly the strong reds and blues of the French flag, which dominate the composition. Movement, The dynamic poses of Liberty and the other figures appear to surge forward. Lastly, contrast, Delacroix uses sharp contrast between light and dark shadow, particularly on Liberty's figure against the darker background. While this painting is undeniably powerful and a masterpiece, I find myself somewhat disconnected from the idealized portrayal of conflict. 

"Liberty Leading The People" by Eugène Delacroix        

Image Source

    "Washington Crossing the Delaware" was created by Emanuel Leutze in 1851 in Germany. I appreciate the technical skill and dramatic composition, but again I feel a sense of detachment from the heroic narrative it presents. Some elements from the painting include scale, the scale of the figures in the boat, is larger than life, this is the heroic scale as it elevates the narrative. Dramatic lighting is also used to create a deep effect, with highlights on Washington and his men against the darker backdrop of the stormy sky. Finally, color, the icy blues of the water emphasize the urgency and struggle. 

                                    "Washington Crossing the Delaware" by Emanuel Leutze

Conclusion

In comparing Realism and Nationalism, it is evident that both styles serve their own purpose in the art world. Nationalist artists aimed to inspire pride and unity among citizens, often glorifying historical narratives. Realist artists sought to confront social issues and portray the struggles of the working class.
Realism's focus on authentic representation resonates with me as my appreciation for the everyday human experience continues to grow. While nationalism, with its emphasis on idealized historical figures and narratives feels less engaging to me. 

Works Cited

Metmuseum.org, 2021, www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/435704.

The Met. “Washington Crossing the Delaware.” Metmuseum.org, 2019, www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/11417.

“The End of the Working Day, 1886 - 1887 - Jules Breton - WikiArt.org.” Www.wikiart.org, 2015, www.wikiart.org/en/jules-breton/fin-du-travail-also-known-as-a-travers-champs-1887. Accessed 12 Apr. 2025.

‌Wikipedia Contributors. “Liberty Leading the People.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 2 Apr. 2019, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liberty_Leading_the_People.

The Art Story. “Realism Movement Overview.” The Art Story, 2015, www.theartstory.org/movement/realism/.

Mayfair Gallery Guides. “19th Century European Painting: Key Styles & Movements.” Mayfair Gallery, 16 July 2018, www.mayfairgallery.com/blog/19th-century-european-painting-styles-movements/.

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