The Effects of Aesthetic Hedonism in Painting Restoration in the 19th Century

Abstract

Aesthetics and philosophical measures are among the bases influential on artistic approaches of each era during art history. Although, rooted in Greek classic art, Aesthetics based on Hedonism boomed in 18th and again in the second half of 19th century. New concepts and definitions of aesthetic hedonism, presented then, along with philosophical trends were influential on aspects of arts. Hedonistic attitudes believing in beauty is in creation of pleasure were expanding. Such trends and attitudes were significantly effective on restorations performed on paintings in the 19th century when differences of opinions were prominent. This article is challenging to study the intellectual backgrounds of aesthetic hedonism in restorations on paintings during the said century and to indicate their direct and salient influence on such restorations. After explaining theories and presenting tangible examples, it expresses the proposed theories and endorses the influence of aesthetic hedonism on restoration on paintings during the 19th century.