Commission

Definition

In the context of art, a commission refers to an arrangement in which an artist is hired to create a specific work of art for a client, often with particular requirements or themes in mind. This practice is significant as it allows patrons to express their status or commemorate important events while providing artists with financial support and creative opportunities. Commissions often reflect the tastes and values of society during a given period, particularly in the realm of portraiture and history painting following major historical events.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During the post-Revolutionary period, commissions often came from wealthy patrons seeking to solidify their social standing through art.
2. Commissions for portraits became increasingly popular as people wanted to commemorate significant figures and events in American history.
3. Many artists relied heavily on commissions for their income, leading to a symbiotic relationship between artists and patrons.
4. History paintings often involved multiple figures and complex narratives, requiring a clear vision from both the artist and the commissioner.
5. The themes chosen for commissions frequently reflected contemporary political and social issues, demonstrating how art was used as a means of communication and propaganda.

Review Questions

• How did commissions shape the development of portraiture in post-Revolutionary America?
  • Commissions played a crucial role in shaping the development of portraiture in post-Revolutionary America by providing artists with financial support and specific themes to explore. Wealthy patrons sought portraits to celebrate their status and achievements, which led to a surge in demand for skilled portrait painters. This resulted in an artistic focus on capturing not just likenesses but also the social context surrounding individuals, showcasing the values and aspirations of American society during this period.
• Analyze how commissions influenced the choice of subjects and themes in history paintings after the American Revolution.
  • Commissions had a significant influence on the choice of subjects and themes in history paintings after the American Revolution. Patrons often requested works that highlighted national identity, historical milestones, or heroic narratives that resonated with contemporary audiences. This demand pushed artists to create pieces that not only depicted historical events but also conveyed moral lessons or patriotic sentiments, thereby reinforcing cultural values and collective memory during a time of nation-building.
• Evaluate the impact of patronage systems on artistic expression in post-Revolutionary America and how this reflects broader societal changes.
  • The patronage systems established through commissions had a profound impact on artistic expression in post-Revolutionary America by creating a framework where art was closely tied to social status and political ideals. As artists catered to the tastes and requests of their wealthy patrons, they navigated the fine line between creative freedom and commercial viability. This dynamic reflected broader societal changes, as emerging middle classes sought representation through art while artists began to assert their individual identities within a rapidly evolving cultural landscape.

Related terms

patronage: The support provided by patrons, typically wealthy individuals or institutions, to artists, which can include financial backing, commissions, and resources.

portraiture:

A genre of art that focuses on depicting the likeness of individuals, often commissioned to honor or memorialize prominent figures in society.

history painting: A genre of painting that depicts historical narratives or significant events, often commissioned to celebrate national identity or cultural heritage.