Jacques-Louis David 1744-1825 French Painter Supporter of the French Revolution One of the leading figures of Neoclassicism

He traveled to Rome with his master and stayed there for 6 years. There he changed his style of painting, abandoning the grand style, baroque use of lighting, the highly finished and morally didactic style. Influenced by artists such as Hamilton who had already begun experimenting with Neoclassicism.

The Oath of Horatii, 1784 “In 1784 the change of style was confirmed by the Oath of the Horatii (Paris, Louvre), probably the most famous and certainly the most severe of a series of works which extolled the antique virtues of stoicism, masculinity and patriotism.”

The Revolution Played an active role during the Revolution Artistically reorganized the Academie Numerous and Spectacular propaganda exercises

Helen and Paris, 1788 David was a major supporter of Robespierre Was arrested after his fall from power by the Directorate; saved by his former wife

As Napoleon gained power in 1799, David’s career intensified again. After the fall of his patron, he retired in exile, in Brussels, where he continued to paint in the same style, but also increased his interest in the mythical.

Jacques-Louis David Antoine Laurent Lavoisier and His Wife                                                                                                                          Produced excellent portraiture Was a great teacher of many painters, most of whom did not follow his strict style.

Madame Recamier

David’s style was a reaction to the Rococo style. An example of Rococo; obviously different from Jacques-Louis David’s style – the Neoclassicism.

Les Sabines, 1799

Presentation by Svetozar A. Dimitrov Quotation, information and pictures from various web pages were used in this presentation.