François Boucher, 1748
I am a huge fan of Boucher. His works are absolutely recognizable, even amongst other Rococo artists, in that he allows for more of an intimate air in his scenes. It is not unusual for a subject of his to be found bare-chested, enamored, or in her private boudoir, enveloped by strategically selected colors.
As opposed to many of his later works, which included more tender pastels, the hues on this painting reflect that of a Baroque palette, making Peter Paul Ruben's influence all the more evident. The young lady in red, who holds a discreet blue ribbon in her left hand, sticks out for her dress' unusual vibrancy in the domestic setting. The absence of attachment to any particular man sets her apart from the rest of the women in the painting.
The individual who particularly catches my eye is the young woman in the back, who, despite being entirely alone, is entertained by her own bird. It is important to note that, in courtship, gifting a caged bird to a lady signifies that she has captured your heart. Her bird did not come caged, which suggests that she is besotted but lacks a true partner.
The two children depicted in the painting are almost like Boucher's signature. I feel as though every painting of his that I have observed includes some reference to youth or childhood, most common in the form of literal infants. Here, they definitely stick out; including children in a courtship scene with inappropriate implications is rather unconventional. However, I do believe they have their place; they are the ones deeming the practice of bird catching an innocent element of the ritual that is courtship.
I have seen very few interpretations of the elements of this painting, and I am absolutely open to new ones. Let me know your thoughts!
