Artwork

The Art of Pleasing

The Art of Pleasing, by Jean-Baptiste Le Prince, 1771
The Art of Pleasing, by Jean-Baptiste Le Prince, 1771

The Art of Pleasing is a print by the Romanticist artist Jean-Baptiste Le Prince. It dates from 1771 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Art of Pleasing is a print created by French artist Jean Baptiste Le Prince in 1771. It is currently held in The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts an intimate scene of two people at a small table, engaged in a quiet activity. The title 'l'art de plaire' suggests the artwork is about capturing charm in everyday moments.

Technique & Style

The sketchy, loose execution of the print gives it a spontaneous feel. Le Prince's use of dim light and shadow creates a subdued atmosphere, characteristic of his early work in the rococo style.

History & Provenance

Le Prince trained under François Boucher and later traveled to Russia in 1758, after initially studying in Metz and working in Paris.

Artist & collection

Artist

Jean-Baptiste Le Prince

Jean-Baptiste Nicolas Le Prince (September 17, 1734 – September 30, 1781) was an important French etcher and painter.

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