The Footbridge
Artist: François Boucher (French, 1703-1770)
Date: 1760
Dimensions:
H: 19 7/8 (50.5 cm); W: 24 in. (61 cm)
Medium: Oil on canvas
Classification: Paintings
Credit Line: Gift of Mrs. C. Lockhart McKelvy
Object number: 1957.38
Label Text:The rustic charm of an idealized pastoral existence is portrayed in this intimate painting. François Boucher was likely inspired by the picturesque countryside around the junction of the Seine and Marne rivers—a popular destination for city-weary Parisian aristocrats looking for more idyllic surroundings.
When Boucher painted The Footbridge he had been working for Louis XV (ruled 1715–74) and the king’s powerful mistress Madame de Pompadour for 34 years. He had been appointed director of the Gobelins tapestry manufactory and in a few years was to be named “first painter” to the king.
When Boucher painted The Footbridge he had been working for Louis XV (ruled 1715–74) and the king’s powerful mistress Madame de Pompadour for 34 years. He had been appointed director of the Gobelins tapestry manufactory and in a few years was to be named “first painter” to the king.
Not on view
In Collection(s)