La Pastorale

About this artwork

Research in Progress

Art Historical Context

**La Pastorale** is an 18th-century created by the French artist P. Mohey, who was active from the mid- to late 1700s. The title translating to “The Pastoral,” points to a popular subject of the era: an idealized vision of rural life, shepherds, and harmonious nature. Such themes resonated strongly in France during a time of artistic refinement and growing interest in the countryside as a counterpoint to urban society. Prints held special importance in the 18th century because they could be reproduced and circulated far more widely than unique paintings. They brought decorative and narrative images into the homes of collectors and the broader public, helping spread artistic ideas across Europe. Moithey’s work belongs to this tradition of French printmaking, which often combined fine draftsmanship with accessible, charming subjects. This example entered the Smithsonian American Art Museum through a purchase by the Advisory Council. Although detailed research on the artist and this particular impression remains in progress, *La Pastorale* offers visitors a window into the elegant, nature-inspired tastes of 18th-century France and the vital role prints played in sharing those tastes.