Painting in the romantic age
Over the course of the 19th century, painting in the Romantic style constituted a number of central themes, but worked to illustrate a variety of different messages. Above all others, many painters of the Romantic Era used their works to portray the grandeur and majesty of nature through the use of landscape paintings. In many of these paintings, the artist would look to illustrate a chosen characteristic about the natural world, such as its beauty or potency compared to that of man. More than many other characteristics, Romantic artists sought to illustrate the majestic power of nature, as well as the mystery that surrounds it, which stood in stark contrast to how Enlightened thinkers portrayed nature. Among the most important of the German Romantic artists, Caspar David Friedrich (1774-1840) exemplifies this school of painting through a variety of his works, many of which emphasize the raw power behind natural phenomenon, as well as their beauty. Paintings like those of William Turner (1775-1851) worked to emphasize nature in a sublime and picturesque manner, showcasing towering mountains or open seas through a complex blur of color and light. As another integral part of Romantic painting, many artists of the time used their pieces to illustrate idealistic visions of rural life, as well as life in the Middle Ages. Painters like John Constable (1776-1837) romanticized rural life, the traditions it held and the sense of stability and calm that characterized it. When looking at the turmoil of the early 19th century, it comes as no surprise that many Romantic artists of the age looked for inspiration to a time when life was simpler and more serene. The majesty of cathedrals and other places of worship were often central to these paintings, representing the resolute character of religion in the age.