“The Rising of the Sun”, painted in 1753 by the artist François Boucher, is an exquisite example of Rococo art, rendered in oil on canvas. The artwork measures 261 by 318 centimeters and falls within the genre of mythological painting. Boucher, who was renowned for his soft, sensual depictions and pastoral themes, employs his characteristic technique and style to evoke a dream-like ambiance that was in vogue during the Rococo era.
The artwork presents an ethereal scene rich with allegorical figures and classical references. At the center, the sun god Apollo, draped in a flowing crimson garment, rises from the water, marking the dawn of a new day. His golden chariot, led by four spirited steeds, awaits him, while the Horae, goddesses of the seasons, assist in his departure. Surrounding Apollo are several nymphs, each elegantly posed in various states of repose or activity, reflecting the natural world awakening with the day’s onset.
Playful putti can be seen in the sky, embodying the lightness of daybreak as they float among the clouds. Their dynamic movements and joyous expressions serve as a celebration of the sun’s daily rebirth. The use of soft, pastel colors reinforces the gentle, tranquil quality of the morning light. The composition is skillfully designed to draw the viewer’s eye through the cavalcade of figures, ultimately resting on the radiant god of the sun.
In sum, Boucher’s “The Rising of the Sun” captures the delicacy and grace of Rococo artistry through its depiction of mythological narratives, use of color, and the sensuous portrayal of the figures. It is emblematic of an age enamored with beauty, elegance, and the pleasures of the senses.