Neoclassicism was a dominant artistic movement in the late 18th century that represented a return to the styles and ideals of classical Greece and Rome.

It was a reaction against the frivolity of the Rococo style and was inspired by the rediscovery of ancient Roman cities like Pompeii.

Neoclassical art emphasized order, reason, clarity, and civic virtue.

Painters like Jacques-Louis David depicted subjects from classical history and mythology with strong compositions and clear lines, as in his 'Oath of the Horatii.'

The movement became the official style of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic era.

Neoclassical sculpture was inspired by Roman portraits and Greek classical statues.

Neoclassical architecture imitated the forms of Greek and Roman temples, featuring columns, pediments, and domes.

This style was particularly popular in the newly formed United States for its government buildings, such as the U.S. Capitol, as it was associated with the ideals of democracy and republicanism.

Thomas Jefferson was a major proponent of Neoclassical architecture in America.

The rational order of Neoclassicism stands in contrast to the emotionalism of the subsequent Romantic movement.