Furniture: Painting Screen Jacques De LaJoüe (1687-1761)

The composition presents a vertical landscape framed by elaborate ornamentation. The central scene depicts a coastal vista dominated by a tranquil body of water and a distant fortified structure perched on a rocky promontory. A small sailing vessel is visible near the shore, suggesting human presence within this otherwise idyllic setting. Lush vegetation – trees and foliage – occupies the foreground, partially obscuring the view of the harbor and creating a sense of depth. Above, the sky transitions from a pale blue at the top to a lighter hue closer to the horizon, contributing to an overall feeling of serenity.
The decorative frame is integral to the works impact. It consists of intricately rendered foliage, floral motifs, and stylized scrollwork executed in muted blues, greens, golds, and browns. The upper portion features a delicate arrangement of leaves and blossoms against a blue background, while the lower section presents a more complex design incorporating what appears to be a shell-like form flanked by stylized animal figures – possibly birds or mythical creatures.
The interplay between the naturalistic landscape and the highly ornamental frame is significant. It suggests a deliberate juxtaposition of wildness and refinement, evoking associations with idealized gardens or carefully cultivated landscapes within aristocratic estates. The fortified structure in the distance introduces an element of history and perhaps even power, subtly contrasting with the peacefulness of the scene.
The vertical format itself lends a sense of formality and grandeur, suitable for its intended function as part of furniture – likely a screen – within a luxurious interior. It is probable that the work was designed to be viewed from multiple perspectives, enriching the experience through shifting viewpoints. The overall effect is one of controlled beauty, suggesting an appreciation for both natures splendor and human artistry in shaping it.