Classical Blog

    For this assignment I chose to cover the theme of the growing economic power of the middle class during the 1700's. I chose this topic because the 1700's were a time of big changes for the middle class. Before the 1700's art was only for the wealthy people and it was unheard of for anyone of middle-class status to purchase. The 1700's changed that, suddenly the middleclass citizens had more wealth and influence on things, leaving the middle class open to a new world to navigate. 

Conversation Piece, A portrait of Sir Andrew Fountaine with other men and women, By William Hogarth 1730-1735

       I chose this piece by William Hogarth because, Hogarth was a highly influential artist during this time period. Hogarth was a product of rising middle class as he grew up low class but as made a living securing commissions from the wealthy such as Sir Andrew Fountaine. This scene is captured in a serene atmosphere, likely in a garden or in a place with elegant setting. This piece exhibits a relaxing atmosphere as it seems to show a group of individuals enjoying themselves in a social setting. There is a man in the foreground on the right displaying and making conversation out of his piece as well as two other men gathered around him in a sort of awe. On the other side of the painting there's two women in elegant clothing that seem to be conversing with themselves. The posture of the people in this painting highlights how the middle class showcased their newfound wealth. The painting reflects the relaxed aura surrounding the group as they have newly found access to formal events allowing them to view and interact with art piece. 

The Shepherdess by Jean Honore Fragonard 1750-1752

    This painting by Jean Honore Fragonard is an example of the Rococo style, a style that was favored by the middle class and is characterized by playful colors and elegant style. In this painting the Shepherdess is shown in lower-class attire, but the clothing looks to be elegant and frivolous. The middle class's newfound ability to afford items typically associated with the wealthy is reflected by the depiction of a lower-class folk but elegant appearance. Fragonard's paintings were often commissioned by wealthy members of the middle class with an interest in collecting art. The purpose of this painting was to highlight the growing influence of the middle class. In addition, the overall atmosphere of this scene illustrates how middle-classes romanticize rural life.

A Group Portrait of Family in an Ornamental Garden by Nicolaes Muys, 1740-1808

    As the third painting I chose for this assignment is this one by Nicolaes Muys, I chose it because it shows a family with the means to have a garden. The garden itself is a symbol of sophistication which highlights the middle-class's growing ability to have such luxuries that were previously exclusive to the wealthy. The figures in this painting are shown wearing lavish elegant clothing, their elaborate attire displays their ability to afford fashionable clothing. This painting is also an example itself as the family depicted in the painting had the means to commission Nicolaes Muys, a well-known artist at the time. Art during this time was a way for the middle-class people could display their wealth and increasing cultural importance.

Augustyn, A. (2019). Rococo | Definition, Art, Painting, & Characteristics. In Encyclopædia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/art/Rococo 
The National Gallery, London. (2020). William Hogarth (1697 - 1764) | National Gallery, London. Nationalgallery.org.uk.    https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/artists/william-hogarth 
Watson, F. J. B. (2019). Jean-Honoré Fragonard | French painter. In Encyclopædia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jean-Honore-Fragonard