Realistic direction it is derived from the premises of materialist philosophy, proclaiming the objective existence of the world, and from the theory of historical materialism (Marks, Engels) formulating the objective laws of historical development and requiring the individual to actively participate in social life.
The themes of realistic works are enriched by new heroes — a worker and a peasant, shown in their daily life and work.
The formal means used by realists derive from the closest experience of classicism (three-dimensional perspective, chiaroscuro modelling) and romanticism (the use of local color, taking into account color reflections, lively texture).
Realism is developing particularly intensively in France, Russia and in Poland, where it also includes historical painting, commemorating important moments in the nation's history.