The Grand Palais in Paris is currently adorned with banners promoting the upcoming Art Basel exhibition, showcasing contemporary art. Across the street, the Petit Palais presents a different atmosphere with its collection of 19th-century art. In honor of the 300th anniversary of Jean-Baptiste Greuze’s birth, the Petit Palais has organized an exhibition that explores his depictions of 18th-century French life through the lens of childhood. Despite Greuze’s waning popularity in modern times, the exhibition highlights his significant success during his lifetime, with his works being celebrated at the Salon and collected by numerous patrons. The curators of the exhibition, Annick Lemoine, Yuriko Jackall, and Mickaël Szanto, argue that Greuze was a daring and influential figure of the 18th century.
Upon entering the exhibition, visitors are greeted by a series of portraits depicting children engaging in various activities such as playing with dogs, reading solemnly, or casting endearing glances. The exhibition then transitions to domestic scenes, focusing on family life and societal rituals of the time. Works like “Silence!” and “Bible Reading” portray intimate moments within families, shedding light on the psychological experiences of the subjects. While Greuze’s approach differs from the satirical works of William Hogarth, his softer and more sympathetic portrayal of domestic life resonates with viewers.
However, the exhibition takes a controversial turn towards the end as it delves into themes of lost innocence and lost virginity. Paintings such as “The Dead Bird,” “Young Girl with a Dead Bird,” and “The Broken Vessel” depict young girls in vulnerable and unsettling situations, hinting at the loss of innocence and the trauma associated with it. These works raise questions about Greuze’s portrayal of such sensitive subjects and their reception in 18th-century society.
Despite the discomforting nature of the later works, the exhibition offers a comprehensive look at Greuze’s exploration of childhood and domesticity. “Jean-Baptiste Greuze: Childhood Illuminated” will be on display at the Petit Palais in Paris until January 25, 2026, providing a unique opportunity to delve into the complex and thought-provoking world of 18th-century French art.
