Created:
Movement:
1773
Rococo
key Notes:
Rococo elegance, Intimate communication
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Dimensions:
32 3/4 x 26 3/8 in. (83.2 x 67 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Easy
New game
story of the work:

"The Love Letter" is a painting by Jean Honoré Fragonard, created in the early 1770s. It exemplifies the Rococo style, characterized by its playful themes and delicate brushwork. The painting depicts a young woman receiving a love letter, conveying themes of romance and intimacy. Fragonard's use of light and color enhances the emotional atmosphere of the scene. The work is notable for its intricate details and the expressive gestures of the figures. It is part of a larger tradition of genre painting that focuses on everyday life and personal relationships. The current location of the painting is unknown, but it has been exhibited in various museums and collections. Fragonard's work remains influential in the study of 18th-century French art.

Description of the work:

"The Love Letter" by Jean Honoré Fragonard, created in the early 1770s, is an oil on canvas painting that exemplifies the Rococo style. The composition features a young woman seated in a lush, verdant garden, holding a letter in her right hand while gazing thoughtfully at a young man who stands before her. The figures are rendered with delicate brushwork, showcasing Fragonard's mastery of light and shadow, which creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy. The color palette is characterized by soft pastels, including pinks, greens, and creams, enhancing the romantic atmosphere of the scene. The background is filled with foliage and flowers, contributing to the overall sense of lushness and abundance. The clothing of the figures is ornate, reflecting the fashion of the period, with intricate details that highlight their social status. The painting captures a moment of emotional exchange, emphasizing themes of love and desire through the expressive gestures and facial expressions of the figures. The overall composition is balanced and harmonious, drawing the viewer's eye to the central interaction between the two characters.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Love Letter