Allegory of Autumn

François Boucher

Created:
Movement:
1753
Rococo
key Notes:
Rococo elegance, pastoral abundance
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Dimensions:
Irregular, 44 3/4 x 63 3/4 in. (113.7 x 161.9 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Allegory of Autumn" is a painting by the French Rococo artist François Boucher, created in 1753. The work is part of a series of seasonal allegories that Boucher produced, reflecting the themes of nature and the passage of time. In this painting, Boucher depicts a female figure personifying Autumn, surrounded by symbols associated with the season, such as fruits and harvest elements. The composition is characterized by Boucher's signature use of vibrant colors and soft, flowing forms. The painting exemplifies the Rococo style, emphasizing sensuality and decorative beauty. "Allegory of Autumn" is currently housed in a private collection, and its provenance prior to this is not well-documented. The work is often analyzed for its representation of the changing seasons and its connection to the broader context of 18th-century French art.

Description of the work:

"Allegory of Autumn" by François Boucher, created in 1753, is an oil on canvas painting that exemplifies the Rococo style. The composition features a central female figure personifying Autumn, adorned in rich, warm hues that evoke the season's bounty. Surrounding her are various symbols of harvest, including fruits and grains, which are rendered with a lush, tactile quality. The background is characterized by soft, atmospheric landscapes that enhance the sense of depth and tranquility. Boucher employs a delicate palette, utilizing golds, browns, and greens to create a harmonious and inviting scene. The figures are depicted with graceful, flowing lines, emphasizing the elegance and sensuality typical of Boucher's work. The overall composition is balanced and dynamic, drawing the viewer's eye across the canvas while celebrating the abundance and beauty of the autumn season.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Allegory of Autumn