Élisabeth Rigoley d'Ogny as Aurora

My name is Feely T. Heart, and I will be your guide today through one of our paintings: nn Here we have François Boucher's exquisite "Élisabeth Rigoley d'Ogny as Aurora," painted in 1752 and currently housed in the Baltimore Museum of Art. This captivating portrait, measuring 1.055 meters in height and 1.35 meters in width, draws us into the world of 18th-century Parisian elegance. nn Boucher masterfully captures the likeness of Élisabeth Rigoley d'Ogny, the wife of a wealthy merchant, portraying her as Aurora, the Roman goddess of dawn. Bathed in soft, ethereal light, she sits gracefully upon a rocky outcrop, her body facing us while her head gently turns to the left. Her white dress, adorned with a flowing blue sash, cascades around her, emphasizing her delicate beauty. A vibrant bouquet of flowers rests in her lap, symbolizing the arrival of spring and new beginnings. nn The artist's signature Rococo style is evident in the painting's graceful lines, delicate brushstrokes, and a dreamy, romantic atmosphere. The muted color palette, dominated by soft whites, blues, and pinks, further enhances the sense of elegance and refinement. nn Through this captivating portrait, Boucher not only immortalizes the beauty of Élisabeth Rigoley d'Ogny but also provides a glimpse into the opulent world of 18th-century France, where mythology and allegory were often intertwined with portraiture to convey deeper meaning and social standing.