Curatorial Statement

Rococo: Behind the Glossy Varnish

The Rococo Period

The Rococo period is one known for its excess, eroticism, and wealth. This era of painting is especially characterized by its dedication to the elite through the deep romanticization of their way of life. The gardens where the elite played in were portrayed with soft pastels, portraits were highly contrived to exude wealth, and erotic subtext littered the canvases. The individual was now the principal subject, now understanding the body and mind as subject of earth and not divinity as believed in past eras. This resulted in much posturing and performance as the individual’s image became valued over substance. However the exploration of self was a luxury which belonged only to the rich white elite of Europe. Those outside of the elite class were seen as supporting characters at most, but more often irrelevant and invisible. The exhibit will focus on how these soft and delicate portrayals of French life impart the elite’s vice and folly when examined further.

Reflecting on the NGA

The NGA has previously chosen to highlight its Rococo pieces that fit within the traditional framework of this time period. Scenes of play, explorations of beauty, and self portraits made up the majority of the displayed collection- being able to boast the likes of Fragonard, Watteau, and Boucher. Art pieces from the time period that either critiqued its performance or depicted other ways of life were part of the NGA collection, but infrequently displayed.

Going Forward

Acknowledging the history of the NGA's approach to the Rococo, the NGA will begin to focus on the other side of European life during this era through deconstructing the traditional style. Continuing to mindlessly indulge in the aesthetic beauty Rococo offers us would be to  perpetuate the immoral glorification of this wealth that occurred at the expense of a variety of people. Everything will be displayed with intention and commentary.

Deaccessioned Piece

A Game of Hot Cockles by Jean Honore Fragonard exemplifies the typical Rococo piece that carries a cheeky indulgence within its presentation and content. It attempts no further analysis of its subjects than its superficial aesthetics. Additionally, there are many similar works in the NGA's collection from Fragonard which all serve the same function. Having this context, this piece would be better used elsewhere and conserving it here would only serve to perpetuate the ideas of mindless aesthetic over-consumption that ran the European elite during this era.

Accessioned Piece

A Rake's Progress’ narrative and style provides this insight into the corrupt side of the Rococo, how the use of money and power in the elite way leads to degradation of the self. This enhances understanding in how the extravagance and galavanting of the French Bourgeoisie was a front for the vice that ruled their life through depicting this directly. 

Exhibit Overview

The theme of the exhibit emerges through its analysis, therefore careful consideration of each companion text is highly encouraged. We suggest going through Hot Cockles and then A Rake's Progress first. With A Rake's Progress to provide a lens to view all the supplemental works through, supplemental works can be observed in any order. Each supplemental work links Neatlines which provide additional insight into each piece. You are encouraged to click on the pieces to get a closer look. Our bibliography and curator pages can be viewed at any time.