Fowling and Horticulture Francois Boucher (1703-1770)

The composition presents two distinct pastoral scenes framed within a lavishly ornamented border of foliage and flowers. The overall effect is one of deliberate artifice, suggesting a constructed idealization of rural life rather than a straightforward depiction of it.
In the upper scene, we observe a young man engaged in what appears to be a hunting activity. He raises a bird into the air, seemingly releasing it after having captured it. A sheep grazes nearby, and a dog sits attentively at his feet. The setting is an idyllic woodland landscape with a gnarled tree dominating the left side of the frame. This element introduces a sense of age and established natural order to the scene. The man’s attire – a vibrant red coat over what appears to be simple undergarments – contrasts sharply with the muted greens and browns of the surrounding environment, drawing attention to his role as an active participant in this pastoral tableau.
The lower section depicts a more tranquil moment. Two children are seated amidst a profusion of flowers and foliage. One child holds a basket, suggesting a gathering of produce or perhaps a picnic. The other leans against what appears to be a tree trunk, exhibiting a posture of relaxed contentment. A glimpse of a distant windmill is visible through the trees, hinting at human presence within this otherwise seemingly untouched landscape. This scene conveys an atmosphere of leisure and domestic harmony, contrasting with the more energetic activity in the upper portion.
The juxtaposition of these two scenes – one focused on hunting, the other on repose – suggests a cyclical view of rural existence: periods of active engagement followed by moments of quiet enjoyment. The elaborate frame surrounding both scenes reinforces this sense of constructed beauty and idealized representation. It implies that what is being presented is not merely an observation of nature but rather a carefully curated vision of it.
The color palette throughout the work is rich and vibrant, with particular emphasis on reds, greens, and yellows. This contributes to the overall impression of abundance and prosperity. The light appears soft and diffused, creating a gentle atmosphere that enhances the idyllic quality of the scenes.