Two Figures Under Parasol
Medium
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Eleanor and Sarah Hewitt
Accession Number
1920-36-271
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Jean-Baptiste Pillement, a French Rococo artist (1728–1808), created *Two Figures Under Parasol during his prolific career spanning roughly 1735–1810. Known for his delicate landscapes, floral motifs, and chinoiserie-inspired designs, Pillement traveled extensively across Europe, influencing decorative arts in courts from Versailles to Lisbon. This print captures the era's elegance, likely depicting leisurely figures shaded by a parasol—a symbol of refined outdoor pursuits in 18th-century France. As a print, the work exemplifies Pillement's mastery in reproductive techniques, such as etching ...