Neoclassical and Empire (Late 1700s C.E. - Early 1800s C.E.)
This time period is a reaction against the extravagance and frivolity of the Baroque and Rococo periods, especially in France. After the French Revolution and into Napoleon Bonaparte's reign, there was a looking back to the ancient past to the Greeks and Romans for their ideals, philosophies, and aesthetics.
The architecture of this time was derived from classical antiquity and designed to reflect emotional feelings. There became an increasing importance to place the building in the "right spot.” This meant the land starts to dictate building placement.
Like architecture and philosophy, the fashion of the time shifted drastically away from the frill and decor of the Rococo to reflect the "traditional" garments of Greece and Rome.
This period was a time of strong monarchies, nationalism and the ignition of revolution. The monarchs of Europe fought many wars over territory and rights of succession, with alliances changing almost overnight in attempts to expand their empires. During this time the divide between middle and lower classes and the nobility grew, and as the lower classes gained more knowledge they began to resist their soveriegns.
Rococo artists and architects used a more lighthearted, flowery, and graceful approach to the Baroque. Their style was ornate and used light colors, asymmetrical designs, curves, and gold. Unlike the political Baroque, the Rococo had playful and witty themes.
Architecture
Clothing: Costume, Fashion and Makeup
History: Religion, Society and Politics
Art
This time period is book ended by the American and French Revolutions, and Napoleon's final defeat and exhile. Included is the bloody Reign of Terror in post-revolutionary France. This period began the shift away from all powerful monarch to the people.