The Abduction of Europe 1747

Francois Boucher painted "The Abduction of Europe" using oil on canvas, a typical medium for grand historical scenes during his time. What’s interesting here is that the artist uses these very traditional materials to create a scene of mythological drama that is, frankly, quite playful and unserious. Look at the way the figures are arranged, almost like porcelain figurines on a cake. Boucher’s Rococo style aimed to please the eye and the patron. This meant emphasizing elegance and sensuality over more weighty concerns. The very act of painting with oils allowed Boucher to create these luminous effects and soft textures, but it also speaks to the economic system of the time, where artists were supported by wealthy elites. There were many hands involved in the art world back then, from those who prepared the paints to those who stretched the canvas. All of these labors contributed to the final product: a testament to a particular moment in history and the many people who made it possible.