The energy in some of Boucher's drawing seems almost modern, as in this drawing of a River God. But look again, and you'll notice that the vigorous mark-making describes a solidly understood form and precisely observed detail.
François Boucher, Head of a River God in Profile, c. 1750
Red, black, and white chalks on buff paper,
8 1/4 x 8 5/8 in. (21 x 21.9 cm)
Private collection, New York; Courtesy W.M. Brady & Co.
In the drawing 'Study of a Despondent Woman in Drapery, Supporting Herself on a Plinth', the tour-de-force of drapery conceals a figure whose placement in space is certain, despite being concealed under yards of fabric.
Study of a Despondent Woman in Drapery,
Supporting Herself on a Plinth, 1761
Black chalk, with some stumping, heightened with white, on buff paper
20 5/8 x 15 1/2 in. (52.5 x 39.5 cm)
Private collection, Switzerland
The student of drawing will have much to gain from this exhibition. Once the initial awe at his virtuosity has abated, take the time to look for the artist's progressive development of structure, form and surface through mark-making in each image. In this way, you can develop a sense of looking over the master's shoulder as he works, and take home some insight into his method.
Please note that Children under ten are not admitted to the Collection, and those under sixteen must be accompanied by an adult. Further information on the exhibition including opening hours and travel routes are available from the gallery website.
A fully illustrated catalogue accompanies the exhibition, which includes an essay by Alastair Laing exploring Boucher's development and innovations as a draftsman, as well as discussing his contemporary appeal. A foreword by Pierre Rosenberg addresses Boucher's place among the great French draftsmen of his time. The catalogue (264 pages, more than 100 color illustrations) is available in English and French hardcover editions ($55) and in an English softcover version ($37.50) through the Museum Shop of The Frick Collection. Those unable to get to the show can obtain a copy at www.frick.org.
Organized by the American Federation of Arts, the exhibition is made possible by the generosity of sponsors including the Grand Marnier Foundation, the Fino Family Foundation, the Samuel H. Kress Foundation, and the Pfizer Foundation. Presentation of the exhibition in New York is made possible through a major grant from The Peter Jay Sharp Foundation with additional support from Jean A. Bonna and the Fellows of The Frick Collection.
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