Suite van kleine genrestukjes en koppen

About this artwork

collector's mark: Lugt 2228

Art Historical Context

François Boucher's *Suite van kleine genrestukjes en koppen* (Suite of Small Genre Pieces and Heads), created between 1727 and 1755, invites visitors into the whimsical world of Rococo artistry through the intimate medium of etching. Measuring just 110mm high by 69mm wide, this petite print exemplifies the 18th-century French master's skill in capturing delicate details on a metal plate, where acid etches fine lines to produce rich textures and subtle tones. Etching's reproducibility made such works accessible, bridging elite painting with broader audiences. The title hints at a charming series of everyday vignettes—genre scenes of daily life—and expressive head studies, hallmarks of Boucher's playful, ornate style. As a leading Rococo figure under Louis XV's court, Boucher infused his prints with lightness and elegance, reflecting the era's delight in decoration and human warmth amid Enlightenment elegance. Adorned with the collector's mark Lugt 2228, this piece carries a legacy of connoisseurship, underscoring its enduring appeal. A gem for print enthusiasts, it showcases how Boucher elevated humble subjects into artistic treasures.

About the Artist

François Boucher · 1703–1770

François Boucher (1703–1770) stands as the quintessential master of French Rococo painting and the most celebrated decorative artist of the 18th century. Born in Paris to a lace designer, Boucher created a visual language that perfectly embodied the refined taste, sensuality, and elegance of Louis XV's court. His prolific output—encompassing paintings, tapestry designs, theatrical sets, and decora...