Artwork

Rocaille Fountain with Venus, Amorini, and Swans

Rocaille Fountain with Venus, Amorini, and Swans, by Edme Bouchardon, chalk, 1735
Rocaille Fountain with Venus, Amorini, and Swans, by Edme Bouchardon, chalk, 1735

Rocaille Fountain with Venus, Amorini, and Swans is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Edme Bouchardon. It dates from 1735 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Rocaille Fountain with Venus, Amorini, and Swans is a detailed red chalk drawing on two joined sheets of laid paper, created around 1735 by Edme Bouchardon. The work depicts a mythological fountain scene.

Subject & Meaning

At the center of the composition is Venus, goddess of love, surrounded by putti (cherubs) and swans. The interactions among the putti and swans add a dynamic layer to the mythological tableau.

Technique & Style

Executed in red chalk, the drawing showcases meticulous detail, particularly in the rendered folds of Venus's attire. The archway framing the scene enhances the sense of spatial depth.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1735 by French artist Edme Bouchardon, specific provenance details are not provided in the available information.

Context

While the drawing's style aligns more closely with the nuanced detail of the Rococo period, its grandeur and thematic elements reflect broader Baroque influences prevalent in 18th-century European art.

Legacy

The drawing's impact or influence on subsequent artistic works is not specified in the provided context, though it reflects the artistic tastes of its time.

Artist & collection

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