The rising of the sun by François Boucher

The cosmic power of solar mythology is expressed with extraordinary passion in this monumental decorative commission from the eighteenth century. The virtuoso François Boucher brings to life the celestial journey of the sun god in the dramatic composition called “The rising of the sun”. Combining the dynamism of Baroque painting with the lightness of Rococo aesthetics, this masterpiece celebrates the eternal renewal of nature. The canvas offers a striking theatrical vision where sky and ocean merge in a whirlwind of life.

The young god Apollo, with golden blonde hair, descends gracefully toward the ocean, his athletic body girded with a swirling red scarf. He is welcomed by sea nymphs with opal bodies emerging from the foaming waves of the sea. On the right, powerful rearing white horses pull the solar chariot through greyish clouds, guided by deities throwing flowers. Below, athletic tritons and sea creatures blow into conch shells to announce twilight. The sky lights up with a glow of gold and azure, while small cupids fly joyfully in the heights to accompany this spectacular celestial transition.

The painter shows uncommon skill in orchestrating such a complex and dynamic composition. His agile brush excels at rendering the movement of gushing water, the transparency of waves, and the pearly softness of the sea nymphs’ skin.