Class 3 -- The Rococo and Boucher

Question 1

Odalisque

Answer 1

A French word referring to a harem slave women as part of the North African Tradition, where women would live in a separate part of the house (the Harem). The word derives from a misinterpretation of the Turkish word Odalik (a chambermaid), which the French mistook for a courtesan.

Question 2

Madame de Pompadour

Answer 2

This highly influential woman was one of the main mistresses of Louis XV (and eventually Lady-in-Waiting to the Queen), although their sexual relationship was short-lived. She was more known as a confidant and friend to the king, and her artistic taste (of the Rococo age) and political influence are clearly seen. Although technically not born into any title, she was married off so that she could be given the title of marquise.

Question 3

Royal Manufactories

Answer 3

These are centrally owned businesses that manufactured objects, primarily luxury goods. Madame de Pompadour encouraged King Louis XV to create these in order to keep up with demands for luxury goods; for example, the Manufacture Nationale de Sevres, founded in 1738, manufactured porcelain objects.

Question 4

Porcelain

Answer 4

This material was considered a luxury good in 18th century France, known for its beautiful translucency (the Italian word “porcellana,” refers to a cowrie shell, which are translucent). It is known as “China” in English-speaking countries. Soft paste _______ was developed in Europe.

Question 5

Denis Diderot

Answer 5

This man was a massively influential French philosopher, art critic, and writer. His scathing reviews of Rococo art contributed to the decline of the style, especially Boucher’s art, who he criticized for his unrealistic depictions of nature and skin tone.

Question 6

Hercules and Omphale

Answer 6

François Lemoyne

Question 7

The Marquise de Pompadour at her Toilette

Answer 7

François Boucher

Question 8

Queen Marie Karolina

Answer 8

Carle van Loo