Autumn

Autumn in Glasgow represents a late seasonal allegory by Fragonard, part of the traditional decorative program of the Four Seasons. The harvest season was typically represented through figures among fruit, vines, and golden foliage, symbolizing abundance and the cycle of nature. The bravura brushwork—rapid, swirling strokes building luminous effects—was applied alla prima onto canvas primed with warm ochre grounds, a technique Fragonard developed after studying Tiepolo in Venice.

The warm autumnal palette of golds and russets creates a seasonal atmosphere appropriate to the harvest theme. The loose handling and atmospheric effects reflect Fragonard's late mature style.