The Sense of Smell Philippe Mercier (1689-1760)

Here we observe a pastoral scene populated by four figures and a dog, set within a lush, verdant landscape. The composition is structured around the central theme of sensory experience, specifically smell. A young man, positioned on the left, leans intently towards a woman who holds a melon aloft. His posture suggests an eager anticipation, his face turned in close proximity to the fruit. He is dressed in hunting attire, carrying a fowling piece and accompanied by a spotted dog resting at his feet. The dog’s head is raised, seemingly participating in the shared sensory moment.
To the right of the melon-bearing woman stands another young man, delicately holding a small cluster of flowers to his nose. His expression conveys a gentle pleasure, suggesting an appreciation for the subtle fragrance of the blossoms. He wears a red waistcoat and appears somewhat more formally dressed than the hunter.
Completing the group is a fourth figure, seated on the right edge of the canvas. She holds a basket filled with roses and other flowers, her gaze directed towards the viewer. Her attire – a rich yellow gown – indicates a degree of social standing. The arrangement of the flowers in her basket suggests an offering or presentation, further emphasizing the theme of olfactory delight.
The background is rendered as a hazy woodland scene, utilizing soft greens and blues to create depth and atmosphere. Light filters through the foliage, illuminating the figures and contributing to a sense of idyllic tranquility.
Subtly, the painting explores the interplay between human experience and nature. The hunter’s presence introduces an element of potential disruption – the intrusion of human activity into the natural world – though his posture suggests more curiosity than aggression. The shared act of smelling unites the figures, transcending any social or gendered distinctions. The woman with the melon seems to be the focal point, her gesture initiating the sensory experience for the others.
The overall effect is one of refined pleasure and a celebration of the senses, evoking a sense of harmony between humanity and the natural world. The careful arrangement of figures and objects, combined with the soft lighting and muted color palette, creates an atmosphere of gentle contemplation and understated elegance.