Art of France (2017)

Episode Overview

Andrew Graham-Dixon delves into the transformative impact of the French Revolution on art in France, ushering in a vibrant new era. He examines pivotal moments, such as the execution of King Louis XVI and the emergence of Napoleon Bonaparte, a figure who both captivated and repelled contemporary artists. The journey through this period highlights the ascent of Romanticism, characterized by themes of seduction, passion, and drama. Andrew showcases notable artists like Jacques-Louis David, whose works resonated in both the streets and on barricades, as well as the masterpieces of Delacroix, Ingres, and the remarkably talented, yet tragic, Théodore Géricault.