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Watteau, Fragonard, Chardin, And Boucher

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Watteau, Fragonard, Chardin, and Boucher, memorable names from an often forgotten art historical period. Rococo is a synonym for ornate, fancy, elaborate, extravagant and is also the word used to describe this art history period. Characterized by levity, elegance, and ornamentation, it is clear why the Rococo art period is defined using this term. Jean-Honore Fragonard is one of the most popular artists from this period. According to Artble.com, The Swing, painted by Fragonard, is a piece commissioned by a notorious French baron requesting to be painted with his mistress. Due to odd request many painters denied the baron before Fragonard accepted the job. The painting depicts a woman sitting on a swing in a carefree manner, her husband behind her pushing the swing, and the baron, her possible lover, hidden in the shrubbery below …show more content…

The subject of the painting expresses the message that an affair is, or soon will be occurring, between the baron in the shrubbery and the woman on the swing. In the painting The Swing, the symbols that allude to the fertility of the mistress, her transition into promiscuity, and of underlying illicit subject matter combine to express the blatant message that a secret affair is occurring between the baron and this woman. The symbols indicative of fertility are included so often in this piece because, throughout history, fertility has been a desirable quality in a partner. The symbols of fertility contribute to the argument that an affair is taking place because fertility suggests that eventual child rearing will take place between the lovers, and marriage may even occur. The blooms at the bottom of canvas suggest new life, and the couple’s ability

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