Nineteenth-century academic painting refers to the style and practices endorsed by art academies in Europe, particularly in France. These institutions emphasized traditional techniques, realistic representation, and adherence to classical themes, often drawing inspiration from mythology, history, and religion. Artists were trained in formal methods, focusing on drawing, composition, and the use of color. The movement was characterized by its emphasis on idealized beauty and technical skill, with notable figures such as Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres and Gustave Courbet. While academic painting dominated the art world, it faced challenges from emerging movements like Impressionism, which sought to break away from established conventions and explore new artistic expressions.