Le Gout

About this artwork

Research in Progress

Art Historical Context

**Le Gout** *François-Thomas Mondon (French, 1709–1755), ca. 1736–55* *Print; Smithsonian American Art Museum, Purchased for the Museum by the Advisory Council* Step into the elegant world of 18th France with *Le Gout* by François-Thomas Mondon a skilled French printmaker whose career spanned the height of the Rococo era under Louis XV. Created around 1736–55, this print captures the period's fascination with sensory pleasures and decorative refinement. The title, translating to "Taste" from French, evokes the long-standing artistic tradition of personifying the five senses—a popular allegorical theme in European art from the Baroque through Rococo periods, often symbolizing indulgence and harmony. As a print, *Le Gout* exemplifies the medium's revolutionary role in the 1700s: engravings and etchings like this allowed intricate designs to be reproduced affordably, spreading sophisticated motifs for furniture, wallpapers, and interiors across Europe and the Atlantic world. Mondon's work reflects this era's ornate style, blending whimsy with technical precision to delight collectors and designers. Housed in the Smithsonian American Art Museum's print collection, this piece—acquired through the Advisory Council's foresight—bridges French innovation with American artistic heritage, inviting us to savor the tastes of history. (198 words)