The Progress of Love: Love Pursuing a Dove Jean Honore Fragonard (1732-1806)

In this Rococo painting titled The Progress of Love: Love Pursuing a Dove, a cherubic cupid, with rosy cheeks and curly hair, joyfully soars through a light blue sky dotted with soft, billowing clouds. He is depicted mid-air, caught in a dynamic pose with his arms outstretched. The cupid is adorned with a draped, flowing yellow fabric, and small, feathery wings sprout from his back.

Below him, a lush landscape unfolds, characterized by abundant rose bushes in bloom. The roses, in shades of pink and red, are densely packed, creating a vibrant and romantic ground.

The scene is further animated by the presence of two doves. One dove is flying away from the cupid, its wings outstretched and its tail feathers trailing a ribbon or streamer. The other dove appears to be either flying towards the cupid or near him, almost within his reach. The cupids gaze follows the departing dove, his expression one of eager pursuit.

The painting utilizes a light and airy palette, dominated by sky blues, soft whites of the clouds and doves, and the rich greens and rosy hues of the garden. The brushwork is delicate and feathery, characteristic of the Rococo style, contributing to the overall sense of grace and charm.

The subtexts of this painting are deeply rooted in the symbolism of love and pursuit.

• Cupid: As the personification of love, his active pursuit signifies the energetic and sometimes playful nature of romantic desire. His cherubic form suggests innocence and the gentle beginnings of affection.
• Doves: Doves are ancient symbols of love, peace, and fidelity. In this context, the pursuit of the dove by the cupid can represent the chase and the captivation of love. The departing dove might symbolize the elusiveness of love, or the initial stages of courtship where one party is more readily pursuing the other. The trailing ribbon could symbolize a connection, however fragile, or the promise of a bond yet to be fully established.
• Rose bushes: Roses are universally recognized symbols of love and romance. Their abundance and blooming state in the painting reinforce the theme of loves flourishing and its passionate aspects. The lushness of the garden below suggests the fertile ground upon which love grows and thrives.
• The Pursuit: The act of pursuit itself is a key element. It speaks to the active engagement required in forming a romantic connection. The upward movement of both the cupid and the doves, against the backdrop of the sky, evokes a sense of aspiration and the elevated feelings associated with love.

Together, these elements create a charming and evocative depiction of love in motion – its eager beginnings, its potential for elusiveness, and its deeply romantic setting. The painting captures a fleeting moment in The Progress of Love, suggesting that love is an active, dynamic journey, filled with pursuit and the promise of romantic fulfillment.