During the Renaissance, the revival of classical ideals significantly influenced various aspects of European culture, including the realm of sport. One of the most striking examples of this influence is seen in the art of fencing, which became not only a popular pastime but also a revered discipline that blended martial skill with artistic expression. The Renaissance period, marked by a renewed interest in the classical art of combat, saw the creation of numerous detailed engravings and drawings that depicted the techniques and movements of fencing. These illustrations, such as those found in the fencing manuals of masters like Fiore dei Liberi and George Silver, offer a fascinating glimpse into the era's understanding of both the physical and strategic aspects of the sport. The engravings meticulously capture the grace and precision of fencing, showcasing athletes in various poses and actions that highlight the sport's intricate footwork, defensive maneuvers, and elegant attacks. These artworks not only serve as instructional guides but also reflect the Renaissance fascination with the human body in motion, drawing parallels to the classical sculptures of antiquity. The portrayal of fencing in Renaissance art underscores a broader cultural appreciation for physical excellence and discipline, echoing the same admiration for athletic prowess that characterized the ancient Olympic Games.

The Neoclassical period, emerging in the late 18th century, saw a revival of interest in the art and ideals of ancient Greece and Rome, and this revival extended to the representation of sports and competitions. Artists of this era sought to emulate the clarity, order, and grandeur of classical antiquity, often incorporating themes from ancient mythology and history into their work. An exemplary piece from this period is Jean-Pierre Saint-Ours’ Les Jeux Olympiques, created between 1786 and 1791. This painting reimagines the ancient Olympic Games with a meticulous attention to classical detail and grandeur. Saint-Ours’ depiction is imbued with a sense of noble tradition and reverence for the athletic prowess celebrated in antiquity. The athletes in the painting are rendered with a sense of dynamism and grace, echoing the sculptural ideals of ancient Greece and reinforcing the connection between artistic representation and athletic excellence. Through Les Jeux Olympiques, Saint-Ours not only pays homage to the classical origins of the Olympic Games but also reinterprets them through the lens of Neoclassical aesthetics, bridging the gap between the ancient ideals and the contemporary cultural revival of the 18th century.

As the modern Olympic Games were revived in 1896, they ushered in a new era of global competition and cultural exchange. With this revival came the need to promote the Games on an unprecedented scale, utilizing emerging forms of media and artistic expression to capture the world’s attention. One of the most innovative approaches to this new challenge was the use of poster art, which began to play a crucial role in the marketing and branding of the Olympics. The official poster for the Paris 1924 Olympic Games, designed by Jean Droit, is a striking example of how this artistic medium evolved to meet the demands of modern Olympic promotion, being a blend of modernist aesthetics and classical symbolism. Droit’s design features a group of saluting athletes, symbolizing both the spirit of competition and the honor of participation. The athletes are depicted with a sense of movement and triumph, set against a backdrop of palm leaves—an enduring symbol of victory and success. The poster incorporates the emblem of the city of Paris, subtly integrating elements that reflect the host city’s identity and cultural heritage. The use of bold colors and streamlined forms captures the dynamism and energy of the Games, while the composition elegantly blends classical and modernist influences. Droit’s poster not only promotes the Olympics but also celebrates the grandeur and prestige of the event, merging art and advertising in a way that highlights the global significance and celebratory nature of the Games. This design set a high standard for Olympic posters, demonstrating how artistic expression can enhance the impact and appeal of the Games on an international stage.