Rococo Vocabulary

Enlightenment

A complex age derived from certain philosophical ideas translated into political movements. Combined the rationalism of Descartes ("I think, therefore I am"), with the notion of empiricism advanced by John Locke; who believed all knowledge was derived from experience. Empiricism became the basis of the Scientific Method.

Intrigue Picture

A painting with a sensual, lighthearted theme; The Swing; (by Fragonard).

Diderot

An Enlightenment philosophe who became editor of the pioneering Encyclopedie, a compilation of articles and illustrations written by many contributors. The Encyclopedie was instrumental in shattering the complacency of Western thought.

The French Royal Academy

An art institute founded in 1648 and known as the establishment of the French classical style, King Louis XIV and his principal adviser were determined to organize Art and Architecture in the service of the state.

Hotel

Elegant townhouse designed in the Rococo style

Hannibal meliori te

Even Hannibal is better than you.

Fete galante

French "amorous festival" a type of Rococo painting depicting the outdoor amusement of French upper-class society. Often with a titillating and flirty intent, the paintings exhibited soft and feathery brushstrokes, dainty figures, and muted, pastel colors. Also, exhibited erotic frivolity and playful intrigue.

Femmes savants

The Salon hostesses referred to themselves as this term which literally means, learned women. These ambitious, and clever hostesses competed to attract the most famous and the most accomplished people to their salons.

Salon

The center of Parisian society and taste in the 18th Century, intimate and fashionable intellectual gatherings and entertainments of the upper class. The creation of a charming, financially comfortable, well educated and witty hostess. Her guests engaged in the art of conversation and in social & intellectual conversation. This included a sharp wit, eloquence, and elegant etiquette.

Chinoiserie

an interest in Chinese imagery developed in France & England.

Rococo

from the French word rocaille and coquille, meaning rock & shell. This style is believe to be a refinement of the Baroque and began appearing around France in 1700. This style was also characterized by pastel colors, delicately curving lines, dainty figures and a lighthearted mood. It was also a major interior design style including wall painting and relief, doorways, ceilings, mirrors, chandeliers, and furniture, as well as ornamental mirror frames, enchanting small sculptures, ceramics, silver, and decorative tapestries.

The Grand Manner

mid-18th C. portraiture which combines classical history painting with full-figured patrons. It is grandiose in scale with life-sized figures who often wear Classical period costumes in a setting with Classical props, such as giant Greek urns and columns.A historical and mythological veneer lends a sense of high-minded seriousness and a personification of quiet authority. Also, it exhibits a dramatic sensibility; almost stage-like. Aside from depicting individualized people, this style was intended to elevate the sitter by conveying refinement and elegance. Such grace and class were communicated through certain standardized conventions, such as the large scale of the figures relative to the size of the canvas.

The Satiric Spirit

satiric essays, songs, and cartoons that exhibited critical, social commentary on 18th century Britain.