Jean-Honoré Fragonard was a French painter of the Rococo period, born on April 5, 1732, in Grasse, France. He was a prolific artist who was known for his sensual and decorative style of painting.
Fragonard’s patrons were primarily members of the French aristocracy, including King Louis XV, Louis XVI, and Madame du Barry. He also received commissions from the wealthy merchant class. Fragonard’s works were highly sought after by collectors and his paintings were often used to decorate the interiors of the grand mansions and palaces of the time.
Fragonard’s paintings often depicted joyful and carefree scenes of everyday life, featuring beautiful women, children, and cherubs in romantic and playful settings. One of his most famous paintings is “The Swing,” which depicts a young woman being pushed by her lover on a swing while her husband looks on from below.
In addition to his lighthearted scenes, Fragonard also created more serious and allegorical works. Some of his religious paintings feature dramatic and theatrical compositions with detailed and expressive figures.
Fragonard’s art was characterized by its emphasis on beauty, sensuality, and lightness of touch. His paintings continue to be celebrated for their technical skill, elegant compositions, and enchanting depictions of 18th-century France.