1800s

The 19th century began with conflict in Europe. In this section witness artistic reactions, both French and English, to the Napoleonic wars and the eventual defeat of Bonaparte.

See how this century of momentous change inspired artistic movements as various and contrasting as The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and The Ancients in England, and The Nabis and The Impressionists in France. Japanese prints were a source of inspiration for many European artists in the 19th century.

Here find out about the stories and techniques behind works by two great masters: Katsushika Hokusai and Utagawa Kunisada.