Francois Boucher (Parigi, 1703 - 1770), bottega

Francois Boucher (Paris, 1703 - 1770) - workshop/circle - Pair of paintings The Surprised Lovers (Les amants surpris) The Pleasant Lesson (‘LAgréable Leçon) 18th century Oil on canvas cm. 46 x 39 - With frame cm. 71 x 61 All the details of the two works (click HERE) We present this splendid pair of paintings, works by a French painter from the circle of Francois Boucher (Paris, 1703 - 1770), one of the most admired and established artists of mid-18th century France, depicting a triumph of the canons of the Rococo period - the most delicate, light and at the same time elegant of styles - capable of interpreting in painting the peculiarities of French society of the Ancien Régime. Particularly known for his idyllic, Arcadian, sensual, and intimately amorous paintings, Boucher had the ability to delight French aristocrats thanks to the subtle ironic intent of his scenes. The two compositions, created around the 18th century by an author from his workshop, are taken from the series dedicated to pastoral themes, depicting joyful children, always immersed in bucolic settings, engaged in romantic activities. Love, represented in all its lightness and as a hymn to joy, was always highlighted by erotic facets, and our paintings also contain symbols and allusions that would have been clearly understood and read by viewers of the time. The first, 'the pleasant lesson,' derives from a painting by François Boucher (1748; oil on canvas, 92x78 cm, National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne, URL: https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/explore/collection/work/3803/) in which a couple of young shepherds are immersed in an Arcadian environment; they are intent on watching over their flock of sheep, while the young man lets his companion play the flute, not without ambiguity, capturing the playful spirit much loved in the French court of the time. Noteworthy is the detail of the ruined fountain, on whose frontispiece one can read the words “Fountain of Truth”, surmounted by a splendid stone lion with its head raised, image and icon of faith and fortitude. The second painting, 'the surprised lovers', also refers to a painting made by François Boucher, now lost, but known from the famous engraving by René GAILLARD (https://collections.louvre.fr/ark:/53355/cl020557780) The painting shows the same amorous dynamics, capturing an intimate and romantic moment between a young couple of lovers, hidden in a wooded environment among uncultivated grasses, the perfect place for a secret rendezvous. The two lovers are embraced, and while the young man seems intent on whispering something sweet to her, they are interrupted by a farmer with a scythe in his hand and his dog, traditionally alluding to amorous ability, barks at their feet. Observing the scenes, the overwhelming sensation of grace that derives from them, emphasized by the graceful poses of the protagonists and the masterful use of the palette, where the colors are clear and bright. For this type of subject, the ultimate symbol of the frivolous pleasures of life to which the aristocratic class yearned, Francois Boucher and his workshop dedicated a large part of their activity, thanks to the great fame of the master and the copious requests from collectors, and our works are to be attributed to a pupil or a studio assistant of the painter. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The paintings are sold complete with 2 pleasant gilded frames and are accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and a descriptive iconographic card. We handle and organize the transport of the purchased works, both for Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers. It is also possible to see the paintings in the gallery of Riva del Garda, we will be happy to welcome you to show you our collection of works. Contact us, without obligation, for any additional information. Follow us also on: https://www.instagram.com/galleriacastelbarco/?hl=it https://www.facebook.com/galleriacastelbarco/