"the Grape-picking Lovers," After Boucher, Large Oil-on-canvas Painting, The Second Of A Pair

A large decorative composition painted in oil on canvas depicting a joyful gathering of putti busy harvesting grapes.

In the center of a wooded landscape, five nude children are busy tending to an abundant harvest of grape clusters. One of them, seated on a blue drapery, brings a bunch of grapes to his mouth, while his companions sort and gather the fruit of the vine. In the background, a putto triumphantly raises a basket filled with grapes. On the right, a final child steps forward into the scene, presumably holding a vine branch or a wreath of foliage.

The bunches of grapes, the basket, and the grape-harvesting activities identify the scene as an allegory of Autumn. The subject belongs to the repertoire of the Four Seasons, a theme frequently depicted in the 18th century in the form of cherubs or children engaged in activities specific to each season.

The scene unfolds in an idealized landscape animated by lush foliage, a luminous sky, and a distant horizon dotted with cypress trees. The delicately rosy complexions, the children’s graceful poses, the deep blue and orange drapery, and the gentle tone of the composition evoke French decorative painting of the Rococo period, in the style and spirit of François Boucher.

This work was likely intended to be placed within a wood paneled setting, such as above a doorway or as a large wall panel. Given its format and treatment, it appears to form a pair with the previously presented Allegory of Summer with Harvesting Cupids.

The canvas retains a beautiful decorative effect. It exhibits a network of craquelure, some wear and minor imperfections in the paint, as well as traces of historical restorations consistent with its period.

Relined in the 19th century.
We have a second painting for sale in our gallery that could serve as a pair or pendant.
Late 18th century.
Shipped between two wooden panels by carrier: 100 euros within France, 200 euros within the EU, and 500 euros to the rest of the world.