What are the main differences between the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and Arts and Crafts art movements?

The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood (PRB) and the Arts and Crafts movement were two of the most influential art movements in the 19th century. While both movements emerged in England in the mid-1800s, they differed significantly in terms of their artistic style, philosophy, and influence on the broader art world.

The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood was founded in 1848 by a group of young artists who sought to break away from the conventions of the Royal Academy of Arts and revive the purity and simplicity of early Renaissance art. They drew inspiration from medieval and early Renaissance art and literature, and often depicted religious and mythological themes in their works. The PRB artists were known for their attention to detail, vivid colors, and complex compositions.

The Arts and Crafts movement emerged in the 1880s as a reaction against the industrialization and mass production of the Victorian era. Led by figures such as William Morris and John Ruskin, the movement sought to revive traditional craftsmanship and promote the idea that art should be accessible to everyone. Arts and Crafts artists often worked with a variety of materials, including textiles, ceramics, and furniture, and emphasized simplicity, functionality, and beauty in their designs.

While both movements were interested in reviving traditional art forms, the PRB was primarily concerned with the fine arts, while the Arts and Crafts movement focused on decorative arts and design. The PRB was also more closely associated with the Pre-Raphaelite literary movement and the aesthetic movement, while the Arts and Crafts movement was more closely aligned with the socialist and reformist movements of the late 19th century.