Artwork

The heard Lover

The heard Lover, by Bernhard Rode, oil, 1753
The heard Lover, by Bernhard Rode, oil, 1753

The heard Lover is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Bernhard Rode. It dates from 1753 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

About this work

Overview

The Heard Lover, a 1753 oil painting by Bernhard Rode, captures an intimate moment between two figures in a private setting, characterized by the Rococo style's ornate yet lighthearted approach.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a tender scene of a seated man and standing woman in a quiet, shared moment, suggested by their gentle gestures and the presence of a small dog, conveying warmth, companionship, and possibly the sharing of a secret.

Technique & Style

Rode employs Rococo characteristics, including an emphasis on intimate, everyday moments and a distinct color palette, as seen in the woman's orange dress and green headscarf against a dark, muted background.

History & Provenance

Created in 1753 by Prussian artist Bernhard Rode, known for works reflecting the Berlin Enlightenment, the painting is now part of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin's collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Bernhard Rode

Artist

Bernhard Rode

Bernhard Rode (25 July 1725 – 28 June 1797) was a Prussian artist and engraver well known for portraying historical scenes and allegorical works.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Gemäldegalerie Berlin open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.