Achilles 1787 - 1828

Antoine Achille Bourgeois de la Richardière created this print of Achilles sometime in the late 18th or early 19th century. The image draws on the history of classical sculpture that was closely allied with the art academies of Europe at this time. These academies were often associated with the state and dedicated to preserving artistic traditions. The image speaks to the neoclassical revival that dominated European art, architecture, and design for the better part of a century. The academies and the market they engendered were self-consciously conservative in their tastes, favoring established genres and styles. To understand the impact of these institutions, it's important to consult period sources, like artists' letters and exhibition reviews. Ultimately, we see how the image reveals the complex interactions between art, power, and tradition.