Art & Music During The Eighteenth Century/The Enlightenment
The art of the Eighteenth Century exibited a bright and playful contrast with the more somber earlier Baroque creations. Artists focused on leisure in an outdoor setting, mythological narratives, and graceful elegance.Music experienced the birth of opera as court entertainment. Since ticket prices were high, patrons expected spectacular and lavish performances. Along with a growth in orchestra, instrumental music for the violin and keyboard also flourished.
The Breakfast - 1739
Boucher depicts a domestic scene (in contrast to his sensual works) centering around the intimate interaction of a family at a morning meal. Note the elaborately ornamated room.
Portrait of the Marquise de Pompadour - 1756
One of the most frequent subjects of his works was Madam de Pompadour. (Mistress of Louis XV) Note the glamourous fabrics and the attention to detail.
Marriage a la Mode - 1744
The characters here are newlyweds. Both show contemporary vices...The husband hides a lady's hat in his pocket and the wife is exhausted from playing cards all night. The butler is holding unpaid bills in his hand.
Simon, Lord Lovat - 1746
Etching of the famous criminal Lord Lovat while he was on his way to be tried and eventually executed for treason. Note the absence of remorse on the facial expressions. Lovat's body language certainly does imply evil.
Portrait of Nelly O'Brien - 1763
Elegant - Poised - At Ease...as she gazes out intimately at the artist.
The Blacksmith's Shop - 1771
Industrial scene celebrating the power of human achievement.