Antione Watteau 1684-1721

Le roi de Rococo

Best known for his fêtes galantes such as the famous Pèlerinage à l’île de Cythère , Antoine Watteau (1684-1721) was a major proponent in the revival of the Baroque style and the formation of the Rococo movement. Watteau was inspired by the theater and in particular the commedia dell’arte , hence elaborately costumed actors, dancers, and musicians were recurrent subjects; he was also fond of bucolic scenes and portraiture. Infused with romance, drama, and joie de vivre, Watteau’s paintings depict a idyllic world of pleasure and entertainment.

About the Series:

Each book in TASCHEN’s Basic Art series features:

• a detailed chronological summary of the life and oeuvre of the artist, covering his or her cultural and historical importance
• a concise biography
• approximately 100 illustrations with explanatory captions