@BrusheswithAntiquity

1 month ago

"The Stolen Kiss," painted in 1760 by Jean Honoré Fragonard

Small description and my thoughts on this painting 👇

This is an interesting painting because there is a twinge of scandal involved no matter how you look at it. These three seem to be in their early twenties and are participating in some sort of gambling card game. The stakes might not seem high, but if people heard about what transpired between them then there would be big trouble, especially in those times. Regardless, my question is why are there only three of them? If the wager was a kiss then what was the expected outcome? Were they trying to get a specific outcome or were they willing to let any outcome be acceptable to them? If so then these three must get into lots of interesting situations. Also, from my perspective it looks like the girl receiving the kiss doesn't seem to really want it but I can also see how that can be interpreted a different way and she is feigning innocence but is happy with the kiss. I also have questions about the other girl. Is she holding her friend down so the guy can kiss her or is she comforting her friend while it's happening? What exactly is happening in this picture and what are your interpretations? I would love to hear your opinions!

In more serious terms, the story behind it is pretty interesting. According to the Met, it might have been inspired by a real incident where the kiss was actually a prize in a card game. In the 18th century, moments like this could have huge social consequences, especially for the women involved. So while the painting has that playful, Rococo energy Fragonard is known for, there is also this uncomfortable undercurrent of consent and reputation. Do you think Fragonard had playful intentions or were there darker undercurrents for this painting?

Thanks for learning about this beautiful painting with me! ❤

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