Quelques aspects de l'interaction entre la science, la technique et les beaux-arts

Abstract

Humphrey Wine : Some aspects of the interaction between science, technology and art. The first part of this article considers some of the new materials and technical possibilities which became available to artists during the 18th Century. Among these was the invention of new pigments, Prussian blue early in the century and Scheele's green in 1775. Painters welcomed in particular new or refined pigments which would be longer-lasting, easier to apply and more brilliant in hue. Also considered are technical improvements made, or claimed, in relation to pastel painting, methods of restoration and reproductive prints. The second part of the article is concerned with how men of science were represented by painters and sculptors. Works by Chardin, Wright of Derby, J.-L. David and Roubiliac are among those considered.