MODERNITY AND DEMATERIALIZATION IN THE LATE WORK OF GUSTAVE MOREAU

ABSTRACT

In its final phase, the work of Gustave Moreau goes through a process of dematerialization, which is common to other artists of his generation. By analyzing Moreau’s painting and personal notes, this paper seeks to understand the artistic strategies and theoretical implications involved in this movement of idealizing the concept of “work of art”. This article discusses the symbolically charged use of techniques that result in paintings of unfinished aspect and the decentralization of the “work”, unfolded into multiple sketches and minor studies. Using the artist’s case as a starting point, it also seeks to contribute to a general perspective on key issues of modern painting.

KEYWORDS:
Modern Art; Symbolism; Idealism