"Homage to Boucher (1973) reflects the artist’s sustained engagement with themes of desire and the female body, as well as his careful study of art history."
-Paula Burleigh, Art Historian, New York
INSTALLATION SHOTS (FRAMED)
HOMAGE to BOUCHER, 1973
Acrylic & enamel on board
48” x 84”
1973
François Boucher (1703-1770) was a French artist who worked in the Rococo style. Rococo is a richly-decorated 18th century European artistic style- the final expression of the Baroque movement; it is also referred to as Late Baroque. Boucher’s is associated with the development of the mature Rococo style and its circulation throughout Europe. He is arguably the best-known decorative painter of this period; his name along with his patron, Madame de Pompadour, has become synonymous with the French Rococo style.
Early works from Boucher celebrate an idyllic portrayal of nature and landscape, inspired by artists such as Peter Paul Rubens and Antoine Watteau. However Boucher is remembered for his mature style, typically creating mythological scenes that are passionately amorous and erotic. He was immensely popular and had numberous private commissions for wealthy collectors. He achieved great honors during his lifetime winning the Grand Pri de Rome at seventeen and becoming Premier Peintre du Roi (First Painter of the King) in 1765.
THE THREE GRACES (verso)
Acrylic & shellac on board
48” x 84”
2000
In Greek mythology, a Charis or Grace is one of three or more minor goddesses of charm, beauty, nature, human creativity, and fertility. Together they are known as the Charities or Graces called Aglaea “Splendor,” Euphrosyne “Mirth,” and Thalia “Good Cheer,” though their names vary by region. In artistic representation, the Three Graces are typically represented in the nude or partially draped and linked in dance. This is symbolic of their role in mythology where they were often associated with dance.
*The Three Graces* have been the subject of many paintings and sculptures over the centuries. The best known depictions include paintings by Raphael (16th century) and Rubens (17th century) and a 19th-century neoclassical sculpture by Antonio Canova.
