On Gusto | William Hazlitt’s views on the art of Titan

On Gusto | William Hazlitt’s views on the art of Titan

Q. What are Hazlitt’s views on the art of Titan, as expressed in his essay, "On Gusto"

Answer: William Hazlitt’s essay “On Gusto” is a notable work in the field of art criticism and literary analysis. His essay was first published in 1816. It was published in The Examiner, a weekly paper (1808 - 1886). In his essay Hazlitt uses the concept of ‘gusto’. He wants to explore the hybrid and spirited qualities that great art possesses.

In his essay, “On Gusto”, William Hazlitt represents the artistic genius of the 16th century Venetian master, Titan. William Hazlitt mentions the definition of ‘gusto’ in his essay, “On Gusto”. He mentions that ‘gusto’ in art is “the enthusiasm of our heartfelt delight in some object or subject”. He argues that this quality is essential to the highest forms of art.

In Hazlitt’s view Titan a presents the artistic madness of true ‘gusto’. He praises Titan's ability to infuse his canvas with a palpable sense of vitality and passion. Hazlitt writes that "Titan's portraits have a look of life about them - not merely the faces and the dresses, but the very soul speaks in them.”

Most of the Critics wonder at Titan’s power to capture the inner life of his art. His arts render the personalities and emotional state of the spectators. His art not only presents the only drawings but it transcends to the hiatus off great art.

Once again, Hazlitt is particularly struck by Titan’s masterful handling of colour. He sees the colour used in the art as the vehicle for the artistic expressive intensity. Hazlitt states that the colour in Titan’s pictures is not the mere representation of natural objects, but has the positive value and force of its own.

The critic argues that Titan uses this colour not merely to depict but to evolve feelings and sensations in the viewer. Hazlitt points out that his palette is imbued with a palpable ‘gusto’. It animates the entire composition of art.

On the other hand, Hazlitt praises Titan’s technical virtuosity. He views Titan’s skill as a means by which the artist’s visionary impulses are given concrete form.

The critic admits Titan’s bold, assured brushwork. William Hazlitt sees them as an extension of the painter’s passionate engagement with his subject matter. According to the view of William Hazlitt Titan’s technical mastery is not an end in itself but rather it is a vehicle for the expression of profound human truths.

Thus, William Hazlitt illuminates the vital role of passion and feelings in the creation of timeless works of Titan’s art.

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