Blind Man's Bluff

7:00 AM

Jean-Honoré Fragonard, Blind Man's Bluff, 1751

BY MOHAMMED CHAUDHRI

Fragonard's Blind Man's Bluff, captures a scene where two lovers share a sensual, yet humorous moment. The flowers and greenery flourishing around the couple are reminiscent of Boucher's nature-filled compositions. The movement in the piece keeps the lovers in a carefree mood, almost as if they are playing a game. The relationship isn't specified, but it can be assumed that they are in a period of courtship, due to the blindfold being loose on the females face. She can slightly see from under the fabric, which implies a more carefree feel between the two lovers. The act of not being completely blinded shows that the female isn't being seduced blindly, but she is aware of her relationship status with the man.

The piece contains all elements of Rococo art. The French affinity for sensual experience and rural yet, fancy clothes blend together to form a piece that caters specifically towards aristocratic viewers of the 18th Century. The ornamental flowers and trees move the piece towards a more passionate relationship rather than a lustful one. Overall, Fragonard's ability to blend both sensual elements with nature showcase the recurrent themes in Rococo pieces in the 18th Century.

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