Trip to The MET: Springtime

A few months ago, I took a trip to NYC and spent a morning at The MET. I will be blogging a six-part series analyzing works that caught my eye and why. 

Springtime (Pierre-Auguste Cot, French, 1873)

Springtime is an oil on canvas painting by French artist Pierre-Auguste Cot, from 1873. The painting was first exhibited at the Paris Salon of 1873, where it was well-received. This is considered Cot's most successful work. The painting depicts a young couple embracing on a swing in a forest setting. The two are wearing classical garb, and are seemingly enthralled by each other, described by one source as "drunken with first love".

I was excited to see this painting in person at the museum, having seen various social media posts detailing it. The dramatic use of light that highlights the female figure is almost angelic, creating a dream-like atmosphere. The expression on the two characters' faces depicts mischief, innocence, and love.