One of the most remarkable artists of the Rococo period was François Boucher, and his works represent the paining style typical for the artists of that time. However, his belonging to the most known Rococo painters is conditional not only upon his talent but also upon the outside assistance. The influential person that helped Boucher to become the most in-demand painter in Paris was Madame de Pompadour, and this fact explains the reason why he painted so many portraits of her. One of them is named “Madame de Pompadour”, and it depicts an elegantly dressed woman surrounded by books (see Appendix A). It reflects the combination of beauty and wisdom, which made her such a remarkable person who managed to maintain good relationship with both the king and the queen. Her portraits created by François Boucher are excellent examples of the Rococo style.
Madame de Pompadour was one of the mistresses of King Louis XV and a patron of arts. Her position allowed Boucher to benefit from their acquaintance as she seemed to favor the artist and therefore promoted him at court (“François Boucher – Biography and Legacy”). I have chosen this painting as I was fascinated by this story and the fact that the painter benefited from a woman’s connections, which seems to be a rare occasion for the sixteenth century. Although it is not the only work depicting Madame de Pompadour, this painting seems more vivid and joyful than the others. It is also an excellent masterpiece representing the views of Rococo artists on beauty and their perception of aesthetics. However, at that time, the painting was criticized by influential people who believed it to be amoral and insincere.
Work Cited
“François Boucher – Biography and Legacy.” The Art Story, 2018.