The Baroque, the 17th century response to the Catholic Counter-Reformation’s demand for memorable and emotionally engaging religious images, gave us many of the most compelling drawings ever produced. Classical and mythological subjects nevertheless continued to exert a strong pull, as did portraiture, landscapes and seascapes which became an important source of artists’ income. In the 18th century, Rococo - represented by the charming drawings of Watteau and Tiepolo – was followed by the Neoclassical reaction against it – as in those of Jacques-Louis David. Romanticism, which emphasised individuality and emotion over classical restraint, developed around the time of the American and French revolutions. Both traditions were represented in the many academies where young artists – mainly male- were taught to draw, paint and sculpt. Early 19th century developments included Realism which rejected both the ideal and the emotional to depict scenes of everyday life. This led to the work of the Impressionists who often drew outdoors, recording changes of light and colour. and championing spontaneity and speed.
