Jean-Honoré Fragonard, a celebrated rococo artist from France, is well-known among art history enthusiasts for his masterpieces like "The Swing" and "Young Girl Reading." However, a captivating painting by Fragonard, titled "Les Marionnettes," which had remained relatively unknown, has just been bought and made public at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. This acquisition is particularly noteworthy because Fragonard's works are primarily displayed in prominent Western art institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the National Gallery of Art, and the Wallace Collection. Being able to see his masterpiece in the Middle East is therefore unusual.
Guilhem Andre, the chief curator of the Louvre Abu Dhabi, expressed their objective of bringing the most exquisite artworks to Abu Dhabi and the surrounding region. The selection of "Les Marionnettes" was based on its exceptional quality and Fragonard's fame during his time. However, Fragonard's life and career are shrouded in mystery, partially due to the turbulent period of the French Revolution, which resulted in the loss of significant information about him. Nevertheless, it is known that Fragonard, born in the French city of Grasse, which is now renowned for its perfume industry, created over 500 artworks, employing a range of styles from historical and mythological subjects to landscapes.
Painted in 1770, "Les Marionnettes" depicts a social gathering, likely occurring on a Sunday in September, within a private garden in modern-day Paris. People from different walks of life, including both commoners and nobility, are depicted enjoying outdoor activities. The focal point of the painting features individuals gathered around a puppet show, while others can be seen purchasing small items from stalls situated on the left side of the image.
According to Andre, "Les Marionnettes" lacks a specific narrative but exudes a captivating atmosphere and showcases a beautiful, vibrant landscape. The play of light in the painting is particularly remarkable. Andre speculates that this artwork might have served as a prototype for a larger piece by Fragonard, currently owned by the Banque de France.
Over the years, "Les Marionnettes" has been passed down through generations of collectors. The Louvre Abu Dhabi acquired the painting from the Weil-Picard family heirs, who had owned it since 1936. This acquisition adds another significant piece to the museum's collection, contributing to its mission of showcasing exceptional artworks from diverse periods and regions.
