Raft Of The Medusa Essay

Introductory statement (argument):

Gericault’s “Raft of The Medusa” from 1819 depicts aspects of idealization that correlated with 19th century romanticism.

Idealization definition:

Idealized art is a style that depicts the human ideal. This style exaggerates the essence of the perfect figure through their structure and stance. Seen in many Neo-classical works, idealization was used, to memorialize the figures almost as gods. Although, idealized art did not portray things exactly as they were seen, it did not change what the artist wanted to convey in emotion and meaning.

In “Raft of the Medusa”, Gericault’s strays away from defining its piece as realism or Naturalism. In contrast, the characters in the piece are conflicting the actual

The correct history behind the work is that 15 men had survived the dreadful experience, as they were lost at sea. However Gericault had decided to depict 20 figures in the painting. This decision goes against all literalism of the work and is done so to emphasize the composition of the piece (Eitner 26). Influenced by the Romantic style that conveys emotion and drama, Gericault’s choice of composition highlighted the intensity of the work.

Conclusion

Therefore, Theodore Gericault’s “Raft of the Medusa” presents great characteristics of idealization, which was influenced by his love for Romanticism. With having had painted the figures as Romanesque sculptures through the use of muscular definition and white illuminating skin, brings forward the notion of an idealized piece. Finally Gericault had also rejected the realism in the piece by adding to the composition, in order to adhere to the drama and tragedy between human and nature of the Romantic style.

Bibliography

Géricault’s The Raft of the Medusa (by Tree) | Art & Perception. http://artandperception.com/2007/10/gericaults-the-raft-of-the-medusa-by-tree.html. Accessed 15 Oct.