JEAN BAPTISTE MALLET (FRENCH, 1759-1835)

JEAN BAPTISTE MALLET (FRENCH, 1759-1835)
L’Adieu
monogrammed 'J.B.M' (lower right)
watercolour, float mounted
14.1 x 9.9 cm. (5 1/2 x 3 7/8 in.)
overall framed: 23 x 19.3 cm. (9 x 7 1/2 in.)

Influenced by the Rococo tradition, characterised by lightness, elegance, and an emphasis on decorative arts. However, as his career progressed, he also incorporated elements of Neoclassicism, a style that emphasised simplicity, order, and a return to classical ideals.

Mallet is best known for his genre scenes, paintings that depict scenes of everyday life, often in domestic settings. His works frequently portray women engaged in activities such as reading, writing, or embroidering, set within richly detailed interiors. These scenes are characterised by their intimate atmosphere, attention to detail, and delicate colour palette, as can be seen in this example.