The artwork titled “A Seated Woman,” crafted by Antoine Watteau around the year 1716, is an exemplary creation of the Rococo art movement. This sketch and study is currently housed in the Morgan Library and Museum, also known as the Pierpont Morgan Library, located in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork depicts a woman seated in a contemplative pose, rendered with delicate and fluid lines characteristic of Watteau’s graceful style. Her posture, slightly leaning forward with her arms resting on her knees, conveys a sense of relaxation and introspection. The loose and flowing drapery, combined with the soft, expressive lines, captures the Rococo emphasis on elegance and naturalism. The subtle tonal variations and light shading techniques highlight the artist’s masterful skill in capturing both form and emotion in a seemingly effortless manner. This work serves as a poignant illustration of Watteau’s contribution to the Rococo movement, emphasizing lightness, playfulness, and attention to delicate detail.
