What was the basic definition of realistic art?

Realistic art, often referred to as realism, is an art movement that emerged in the mid-19th century, focusing on depicting subjects as they are in everyday life without idealization or embellishment. It emphasizes the accurate representation of ordinary scenes, people, and objects, often highlighting social issues and the lives of the working class. Realistic artists sought to portray truth and authenticity, moving away from the romanticism and emotional expression prevalent in previous art movements.