Love As Folly c. 1773 - 1776

Jean-Honoré Fragonard painted Love as Folly, and within it, we see the symbol of Cupid, with all its classical associations to desire, but transformed. Here, Cupid holds not his bow and arrow, but a burning torch, ready to ignite passion. This image, though playful, draws from a long lineage of symbols—the torch reminiscent of ancient rituals and the doves of Aphrodite, both alluding to love's intoxicating power. This dove, which we see taking flight, is reminiscent of images throughout time, notably the dove in Picasso's lithograph 'Dove of Peace', an image of hope born out of the devastation of war. In both instances, we see a dove, an image that engages with collective memories of love and hope. Fragonard presents Cupid as a mischievous child, unconcerned with reason, embodying the folly that love often brings. This speaks to the subconscious desires that drive us, the irrationality that underlies our most profound connections. We see these desires reflected in the painting's lighthearted, decorative style that conveys the frivolous pursuits of love.