December 17 in Art History
2 real events recorded on December 17, the earliest from 1834. 1 died on this date.
The day's biggest moments
Died on this day 1
- 1834 Died
Died this day: Henry Bone
Henry Bone, a British enamel painter, died on this day in 1834. He was known for his portrait miniatures, which earned him royal patronage during the reigns of three monarchs. Bone's work also included large enamel paintings and earlier experience as a porcelain and jewelry painter.
He remains notable for producing the largest enamel paintings of his time as a Royal Academician.
Unveilings & commissions 1
- 1895 Unveiling Landmark
First Public Screening of the Lumière Brothers' Cinématographe
On December 17, 1895, the Lumière brothers held the first commercial public screening of their Cinématographe at the Salon Indien du Grand Café in Paris. While a private demonstration occurred earlier in March, this date marks the birth of cinema as a public entertainment medium. The program included ten short films, most notably 'The Arrival of a Train at La Ciotat Station' and 'Workers Leaving the Lumière Factory.' This event is widely considered the official beginning of the film industry, transitioning motion pictures from a scientific curiosity to a mass cultural phenomenon.
It established the foundation for the global film industry and the modern concept of the movie theater.