The Swing | Relatable Symbols of Then and Now | |

Symbolism and allegory have always been prevalent themes in art, but before the 18th century, they appeared in western art mainly existed in religious, history, and philosophical painting. During the 18th century this changed as the art world shifted towards more secular subjects and settings. Jean- Honoré Fragonard in his 1766 painting The Swing (figure 1) uses symbolism and allegory to convey a scene of eroticism, scandal, and hidden meaning. Even though it was painted 250 years ago, these hidden meanings are still understandable and relevant today.
Jean Honoré Fragonard was born at Grasse on April 5, 1732 where he lived until 15 years of age. His father, Francois Fragonard, went to live in Paris soon after his son’s 15th birthday where it was decided that his son should earn his living as a junior clerk in a notary’s office. This was not a suitable career for Honoré who was perpetually drawing and showed considerable artistic aptitude. The notary that he worked for advised the family to send their son to study under some painter saying, "For he will do far more good in copying pictures than he has ever done in transcribing deeds."
Fragonard’s mother first took him to Francois Boucher, who was now at the height of his career. The great artist however was not in the habit of receiving amateur pupils and sent him to study under Chardin for 6 months. Fragonard made little progress, and Chardin informed his family that there was no indication that the he would ever succeed as a painter. He also said he was idle, and would rather wander the streets of Paris than devote himself to serious work. Although, to Chardin wandering the streets was lazy and unproductive, Fragonard used this time wisely. He would study the pictures hanging in the Paris churches, commit them to memory, and on his return home