The Rococo Period
1725-1775
What is Rococo?
• Derives from the French word rocaille, which refers to the delicate scroll of
the seashell
• Rococo style transitioned the grandeur of the Baroque to the poise and
clarity of the Classical
• Emphasis on pleasantness and prettiness
• Luxurious but refined—not as gaudy as some Baroque style art
• Flourished in France
• Product of the wealthy aristocracy—reflected a decadent court society
• Society and manners followed strict systems with elegance, grace,
refinement and love viewed as most important
• Worship of wealth, pleaseure and power superseded the worship of God
• Music and art reflected lightness and pleasure instead of an appeal to
taith and emotion as in the Baroque
Versailles
Painting
• Maintained many of the techniques of the
Baroque, especially with light and shade
• Formal organization less open, lines less
diffused, a bit less action
• Main difference lies in subject matter and
mood
• Reflected a preference for the delicate and
superficial
Antoine Watteau
• 1684-1721
• Active during shift from Baroque to Rococo
• Work shows the vitality of the Baroque, coupled with the
demands of the French court, displaying artificial grandeur
• Embarkation for the Island of Cytera (CP 42)
– Tells the story of the courtly steps involved in convincing a lady
to join the festivities and set sail for the mythical island of love
– Reflects amorous sentiments rather than strong expressive
emotions
– Use of light and shade less dramatic, figures more clearly
delineated, form less open and action more static than Baroque
paintings
Francois Boucher
• 1703-1770
• Painted miniature scenes for the King
• Madame de Pompadour (CP 43)
– Depicts the spirit of the aristocracy through her
posture and dress
– Open book suggests intellect
– Skillful use of light and shade creates the look of
silk on her gown
– Lacks the drama and emotion of the Baroque
Music
• Like art, music was lovely and delicate, but lacked
the passion and grandeur of the Baroque
• Much attention was given to decorative details of
musical instruments
– Patterns carved into instruments themselves and
cases
– Sides and tops of keyboard instruments often painted
• Francois Couperin (1668-1733)
– Composed primarily for keyboard instruments—
harpsichord, organ
– Known for delicate ornamentation throughout music