It can be safely said that the seeds of modernity were ingrained in Classicism. To put it differently, Classicism nurtured all the key elements that were to flourish later on in contemporary times. Classical painting refers to the basics of this visual art form. All the fundamental aspects of painting evolved from the Classical schools of thought. It is quite interesting to note that Classical painting eventually gave birth to so many genres worldwide. The roots of almost all the modern concepts are deeply seated in the Classical techniques and styles of painting.
You need to date back to the 15th century to trace the history of Classical painting. In those days, simpler techniques were applied to painting. In Classical times, occidental cultures mainly saw the emergence of oil paintings and watercolor paintings. These paintings were rich in subjective expressions and thematic sublimities. The oriental forms of Classical painting predominantly carried social messages. It was marked by diligent use of different shades of colors and inks.
The art of painting deals with a profound and intense passion to create figures and shapes having a strong aesthetic value. More than the material worth, it is all about exploring the undercurrent of beauty. However, Classical philosophers such as Aristotle and Plato had different opinions about this element of beauty in painting. Plato vehemently opposed the idea that painting reflects truth. He in his philosophical principles discarded all the lofty ideas associated with painting, saying that it merely copies reality and does not reveal any aspect of reality.
In other words, Plato opined that painting is a mere shadow of the world of ideas that already exist. According to him, any form of painting is nothing but a craft, same as iron casting or shoemaking.
Plato's thoughts on painting took the world by storm. 18th and 19th century philosophers such as Hegel and Kant interpreted painting differently. The Classical elements in painting assumed a new dimension when Leonardo Da Vinci stated: “Pittura est cousa mentale” (painting is an intellectual thing). His famous portrait of Mona Lisa is widely regarded as one of the best illustrations of Classical painting.
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Hegel's view on Classical painting or painting in general is worth taking a note of. He put painting in the same bracket with music and poetry, as three romantic art forms having a strong symbolic and intellectual significance.
Classical painting, with its authoritative attributes, easily transcends time and gets etched forever in the treasure trove of art and beauty!
Keep flipping through the pages of handicraftsgifts.com for more on Classical painting and myriad other genres of painting.
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