The first monograph to appear on Boucher in English for nearly twenty years, this book is an invaluable contribution to the study of eighteenth-century art. Boucher has cried out for reassessment, and here at last, following the tercentenary year of his birth, his work is seen at its very best in numerous beautiful reproductions. Jo Hedley brings new insights into Boucher’s art, explaining both his stylistic development and his cultural context; she also examines his legacy, both in a survey of the influence of his imagery in many media and in a deconstruction of the myth of his libidinous personality (based on his art, not his life)
This book has been highly acclaimed by numerous reviewers. "Splendidly written and lavishly illustrated, Jo Hedley's book on Francois Boucher is a pioneering publication...Hedley's book abounds in new information, fresh insights and suggestive analysis" (Colin B. Bailey, The Burlington Magazine) Jo Hedley is Curator of Pictures pre-1800 at The Wallace Collection, London.