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Emblem of Folly

Unknown

1749

oil

canvas

From the collection of Metropolitan Museum of Art

Rococo painting 18th Century Allegory

Dominant colour

Emblem of Folly is a 1749 oil by Unknown, a Rococo painting work, held at Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Who painted this?: Unknown
When & what style?: 1749 · Rococo painting
Where can I see it?: Metropolitan Museum of Art

About this work

This painting depicts a whimsical scene with a figure in a vibrant, floral-patterned dress and a red headscarf, riding a white horse. The figure holds a long pole with a flag and a basket, while an angel stands to the right, pointing at the figure. In the background, a tree with red berries and a body of water are visible. A closer look reveals the intricate details of the figure's attire and the angel's gentle gesture. The overall atmosphere of the painting is one of curiosity and wonder. The artist's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark to create a sense of volume and depth, adds depth and dimension to the scene.