The art of wearing flowers

Floral prints have inspired artists since the 18th century. It is associated with the seasons and is particularly popular in women's clothing and fashion accessories.

In the details of the sleeves, the painter created a motif of grape clusters associated with their vine leaves. Outside of religious art, grapes can represent youth and vitality, as well as abundance and wealth. This is particularly true of our work, as it is a ceremonial portrait. What's more, grapes are harvested between August and October, implying that Largillierre portrayed his daughter in early autumn. The cloak around her shoulders and the fog in the background support this theory.