Artwork

Abundance

Abundance, by Pierre Paul Prud'hon, oil, 1812
Abundance, by Pierre Paul Prud'hon, oil, 1812

Abundance is an oil painting by Pierre Paul Prud'hon. It dates from 1812 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.

About this work

Overview

Abundance is a 1812 oil painting by French artist Pierre-Paul Prud'hon, known for his allegorical and portrait works. The painting is now part of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts two women: one standing, dressed in purple and holding a horn, and the other seated, wearing white and blue. The standing figure is likely a personification of abundance, with the horn symbolizing fertility and plenty.

Technique & Style

The women are rendered in a classical style, with a warm, golden background. The figures' classical depiction and the use of allegory reflect Prud'hon's Neo-classical influences.

History & Provenance

Prud'hon collaborated with Constance Mayer after 1803, making attributions challenging. The painting is now held at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Pierre Paul Prud'hon

Artist

Pierre Paul Prud'hon

Pierre-Paul Prud'hon (French pronunciation: , 4 April 1758 – 16 February 16, 1823) was a French Neo-classical painter and draughtsman best known in his own time for his allegorical paintings and portraits, now for his drawings.