Artwork

La gageure des trois commeres: Le poirier

La gageure des trois commeres: Le poirier, by French 18th Century, ink, 1750
La gageure des trois commeres: Le poirier, by French 18th Century, ink, 1750

La gageure des trois commeres: Le poirier is an ink print by the Baroque artist French 18th Century. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

La gageure des trois commeres: Le poirier is an etching that portrays three women gathered beneath a pear‑laden tree. One figure reclines on the ground while the other two stand nearby, all dressed in flowing robes. A house and a statue appear in the background, situating the scene within a domestic landscape.

Subject & Meaning

The composition centers on the interaction of the three women with the fruit‑bearing tree, suggesting themes of abundance, labor, or communal activity. The presence of the house and statue may allude to a specific locale or narrative context, though the work remains primarily a study of figures in a natural setting.

Technique & Style

Executed in fine etching, the print displays intricate line work and delicate textures that convey depth and volume. Careful shading and contrast enhance the realism of the figures, foliage, and architectural elements, while the precision of the incised lines underscores the artist’s control of the medium.

History & Provenance

The work is catalogued as a print titled La gageure des trois commeres: Le poirier, created using traditional etching methods. No further details on its date of production, artist, or ownership history are provided in the source material.

Artist & collection

Portrait of French 18th Century

Artist

French 18th Century

This artist worked in late 18th-century France, making portrait paintings and etched prints.

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