Absolutely Stunning Framed Embroidery, titled The Souvenir or Le Chiffre d'Amour (The Cipher of Love).
This needlepoint art is a handmade craft piece based on a famous 18th-century painting by French Rococo artist Jean-Honoré Fragonard, titled The Souvenir or Le Chiffre d'Amour.
The original oil painting was created by Jean-Honoré Fragonard in 1769. The physical needlepoint piece you have was likely created by an amateur embroiderer who purchased a mass-produced kit or pattern. These kits were popular in the mid-20th century, especially in the 1960s or 1970s, when many vintage versions of this design were made.
This design was widely available as a kit, so many similar completed pieces exist. What I love about this is that each person who made their embroidery decided on an initial perhaps of their own loved one, as so many variations are out there!!
The original painting that inspired your needlepoint, tells a story steeped in 18th-century romantic literature and symbolism.
The young woman depicted is widely believed to be Julie d'Étange, the heroine from Jean-Jacques Rousseau's highly popular and influential 1761 novel, Julie, or the New Heloise. The novel was written in the form of letters and championed themes of emotional sensitivity (sensibilité) and romantic passion. She is captured in a private, quiet moment, carving the initial (likely an "L" for her lover, Saint-Preux) into the bark of a tree. This act of carving initials was a classic romantic gesture of the time, meant to symbolize enduring love. Her pet spaniel is seated patiently at her side, a traditional symbol in art of fidelity and loyalty in love.
Fragonard's Rococo style uses soft, flowing brushstrokes and warm, pastel colours to create a sense of intimacy and wistful longing. The scene captures an elusive moment of beauty and contemplation amidst the aristocratic life, reflecting the era's fascination with romantic and passionate human relationships. The painting was created in 1769 (some sources suggest 1778) as Rococo art was still in vogue among the French elite, but tastes were shifting towards more serious, Neoclassical styles. It was reproduced as a popular commercial engraving, which is why the image became so widespread and eventually found its way into needlepoint kits.
Origin Unknown, Framed in the 80's.
Visible Flaws: None.
Please view images for full condition, images from part of the description. I do not accept returns, and I do not offer Refunds, I clearly list flaws, as a buyer you are open to ask questions and you must ensure you have viewed the full condition of the item, before you purchase it. Photos are enlarged and lighting is enhanced to provide the best view of the listed item. Use of a ruler is recommended to familiarize yourself with the size. Your purchase is your confirmation that you agree with the condition and size of the item.
Approximate Dimensions: Height 70cm, Length 50cm, Width 2cm.
Price: R850.00. I am open to Reasonable Offers.
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