Allegory of Winter or Children Parodying a Ball
ca 1707-1711
Jean-Antoine Watteau captures a delightful moment of childhood mimicry in this red chalk sketch, where a group of toddlers are dressed in elaborate adult costumes to parody a formal court ball. Created around 1707-1711, this piece—often called an 'Allegory of Winter'—hints at the playful, theatrical spirit that would define the Rococo movement. The children, some holding flags and others striking serious poses, look like a miniature, chaotic version of high society, reminding us that even the grandest adult rituals can look a bit silly when performed by kids.
- Technique
- red chalk
- Material
- paper
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