Erigone Conquered by François Boucher
François Boucher: Erigone Conquered (1703-1770)
The woman depicted as Erigone brings us to a specific narrative from Greek mythology. Erigone was the daughter of Icarius of Athens, who was killed by shepherds after they had drunkenly mistaken him for a poisoner when he shared wine given to him by Dionysus. In grief upon finding her father's body, Erigone hanged herself and was subsequently placed in the stars as the constellation Virgo.
In François Boucher's portrayal, if we assume this to be Erigone, the scene could be a romanticized interpretation of her story prior to the tragic events. Boucher was known for his ability to take classical subjects and imbue them with a sense of contemporary sensibility and Rococo charm. Rather than focusing on the tragic aspects of Erigone's tale, Boucher’s rendition likely emphasizes the idyllic and peaceful moments of her life, connecting her with the beauty and serenity of nature, which was a common theme in Rococo art.
The pastoral setting, infused with a sense of tranquility and a lush, almost tangible atmosphere, suggests the Golden Age—a time of peace, harmony, and abundance before the introduction of modern complexities. This aligns with Boucher’s tendency to depict mythological figures in a way that resonates with the escapist desires of the French aristocracy of his time, who yearned for the simplicity and purity of pastoral life.
In this context, the cherubs could symbolize the presence of divine forces in Erigone’s life, perhaps even the presence of Dionysus, the god of wine, who plays a pivotal role in her story. The lush vines and grapes could be a direct reference to Dionysus and the gift of wine that indirectly led to the tragedy.
Boucher’s work often features such mythological references, but rather than presenting them with somber tones, he celebrates their presence within a world of beauty and sensuality. The painting, when viewed through the lens of Erigone's story, becomes a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of happiness and the omnipresence of fate in Greek mythology. It’s a classic example of how Rococo art often concealed deeper narratives beneath its decorative and pleasing exteriors.
Art History
