(Neo-Classical st.) -
One of the top design styles in modern interiors is Neo-Classical. Developed in the 18th century, artists of this time sought to move away from the abundance of decoration saw in the Rococo style and shift towards a more restrained and moderate style.
As a result of this, excessive ornamentation was left behind with the new focus being on symmetry and minimalism. Architectural elements like columns and cornices were now the star of the show and were paired with linear furniture to showcase the beauty of the architecture.
The Neo-Classical decorating style is modest and chic, with decorative pieces being strategically placed with moldings and cornices being the finishing touch. Tall walls, large expansive windows, and columns are key features of any Neo-Classical design.
Antonio Canova ( 1757 - 1822 ) In 1770, Canova was an apprentice to Giuseppe Bernardi, aka 'Torretto' and Giovanni Ferrari until he began his studies at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Venezia.At the Academy, he won several prizes. And was given his first workshop within a monastery.
The Senator Giovanni Falier commissioned Canova to produce statues of Orpheus and Eurydice for his garden – the Villa Falier at Asolo, and were exhibited for the Piazza S. Marco. His work won Canova his first renown among the Venetian elite.
In 1780 we went to Rome and studied and sketched the works of Michelangelo.
By 1800, Canova was the most celebrated artist in Europe, acquiring patrons from across Europe including France, England, Russia, Poland, Austria and Holland, as well as several members from different royal lineages. Among his patrons were Napoleon and his family, including:
Napoleon as Mars the Peacemaker, and
Venus Victrix which was portrayal of
Pauline Bonaparte.
In 1815, he was named 'Minister Plenipotentiary of the Pope’ and was tasked with recovering various works of art that were taken to Paris by
Napoleon.
In 1816 Canova returned to Rome and was appointed President of the
Accademia di San Luca, inscribed into the "Golden Book of Roman Nobles" by the Pope's own hands,and given the title of Marquis of
Ischia, alongside an annual pension of 3000 crowns.
Upon his death, his body was placed in the Tempio Canovianoand his heart was interred at the
Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari in Venice, and his right hand preserved in a vase at the
Accademia di Belle Arti di Venezia.
His memorial service was so grand that it rivaled the ceremony that the city of Florence held for Michelangelo in 1564.