Who coined the term "Realism" in the 1840s?

The term "Realism" in the context of art refers to a movement that emerged in the mid-19th century, emphasizing the depiction of subjects as they are, focusing on everyday life and the lives of ordinary people, in contrast to the Romanticism that preceded it, which often idealized subjects. Champfleury was a French art critic and writer who played a crucial role in defining and promoting the Realism movement. In the 1840s, he utilized the term to describe a new artistic approach that sought to portray reality without embellishment or idealization. His writings helped to articulate the philosophy behind Realism and supported artists who were working within this framework.

Understanding the context of Champfleury's contributions to art criticism and theory highlights his significant influence on the movement, distinguishing him as the figure who coined the term.