The Progress of Love: The Meeting
Historical Context
The Meeting is part of the Progress of Love series at the Frick Collection, depicting the secret rendezvous of young lovers in a garden. This pivotal moment in the courtship cycle shows the suitor's bold approach over a garden wall to meet his beloved in a scene of romantic anticipation. 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.
Technical Analysis
The towering garden trees create a monumental natural backdrop for the intimate encounter. The verdant greens, golden light, and the rose-colored statue of Venus create a chromatic harmony of love and nature.
