I'm not really good with art and it's history, but can someone tell me what was typical of paintings in the late 1800's?

Question

Also the painting Pandora by John William Waterhouse, would you describe it as surrealism, impressionism, realism, etc? This would be really helpful.

Answer 1

 

After viewing the picture, I would describe the painting as Impressionistic.

 

You can eliminate surrealism insofar as that movement, if I recall correctly, was founded by Andre Breton around 1924 when he published the Surrealistic Manifesto (which I labored with <groan>, back in college). By then, Waterhouse had already been dead. 

 

"In general, realists render everyday characters, situations, dilemmas, and objects, all in a "true-to-life" manner. Realists tend to discard theatrical drama, lofty subjects and classical forms of art in favor of commonplace themes." 

 

After viewing his portfolio, one pretty much dismisses Waterhouse as a Realist.