I understand the backlash these artists, and others, felt against industrialization and raw capitalism. It not only reduced fine handwork to mass-produced goods; it reduced humans to mere 'labor'. Of course, it had its positive side, but at what cost. So, the Pre-Raphaelites have long appealed to me - not only for their social philosophy - but, because their work is so incredibly beautiful.
What a painting, it changed British art forever. You can put your nose right up to it and really get into the details at the Walker where it hangs. A magnificent free gallery in Liverpool UK.
As I was eating my leftovers with plasticware, I was humbled by the sumptuous bougieness of this scene, the majolica, etc. But then I remembered they don't have AC or electrolyte-infused flavored water or basic human rights and I felt just fine. 😌 What a legend you must be to have periods of time named in your honor. There's BC and AD. In the art world, there's Raphael. I kinda wonder why him specifically, but I'm sure it's well-deserved.
This context that you have given everything is very interesting. It highlights what I find frustrating about art though. Yes, I can see it is beautiful, and yes I can see the talent of the artist, but things such as this in a museum without the context leaves me with a superficial feeling of yes, it is "Beautiful" but then, on to the next piece and so on.
I always interpreted the man cracking walnuts as Lorenzo. He seems so odd compared to the other figures, he's hunched, unrefined, purposefully set apart. His seat "buries" the dog, his future fate. He points at the other dogs head which Isabella holds, like how she retrieves it to put it in the pot. He also has the phallic shadow which is so weird
Dogs are generally symbolic of loyalty, fidelity. In contrast, perhaps the dog beneath the upturned chair is warily keeping a distance; yet it appears vulnerable to the chair coming down on its leg.
I understand the backlash these artists, and others, felt against industrialization and raw capitalism. It not only reduced fine handwork to mass-produced goods; it reduced humans to mere 'labor'. Of course, it had its positive side, but at what cost. So, the Pre-Raphaelites have long appealed to me - not only for their social philosophy - but, because their work is so incredibly beautiful.
Also, the 'Nazarenes' (group of German artists), Pugin, Ruskin, William Morris.
What a painting, it changed British art forever. You can put your nose right up to it and really get into the details at the Walker where it hangs. A magnificent free gallery in Liverpool UK.
my most favorite era, glad you're covering this
Very interesting. Thanks!
As I was eating my leftovers with plasticware, I was humbled by the sumptuous bougieness of this scene, the majolica, etc. But then I remembered they don't have AC or electrolyte-infused flavored water or basic human rights and I felt just fine. 😌
What a legend you must be to have periods of time named in your honor. There's BC and AD. In the art world, there's Raphael. I kinda wonder why him specifically, but I'm sure it's well-deserved.
Amazing... Thank you so much for all the info
This context that you have given everything is very interesting. It highlights what I find frustrating about art though. Yes, I can see it is beautiful, and yes I can see the talent of the artist, but things such as this in a museum without the context leaves me with a superficial feeling of yes, it is "Beautiful" but then, on to the next piece and so on.
That is why, in part, Smarthistory, and the discipline of art history, exist.
i adore Pre Raphaelite art, it is so ethereal and beautiful. The baroque and rococo are also so visually breathtaking.
grazie!!!
The Irish prog-rock band Fruupp used a version of this painting, for their album "Modern Masquerades" in the 1970s! I've still got my copy.
Wow, he painted the plates!!!
Another great video. Thanks. You guys know any good books on the ideas and/or history of the Pre-Raphaelites?
I always interpreted the man cracking walnuts as Lorenzo. He seems so odd compared to the other figures, he's hunched, unrefined, purposefully set apart. His seat "buries" the dog, his future fate. He points at the other dogs head which Isabella holds, like how she retrieves it to put it in the pot. He also has the phallic shadow which is so weird
Dogs are generally symbolic of loyalty, fidelity. In contrast, perhaps the dog beneath the upturned chair is warily keeping a distance; yet it appears vulnerable to the chair coming down on its leg.
Love this!
Is there a story for the lady that next to Lorenzo? She seems to be the only on that’s not indulging in the meal😮
🌻🌺
Lorenzo/John Cazale
It’s not keats it’s boccaccio!!!!!😵😭🫣
While Keats certainly drew from Boccaccio, this is a 19th century painting based on a 19th century poem, and meant for a 19th century audience.
Still poignant today.