Was Watteau's art only for the elite?
While my subjects often feature the aristocracy and their leisurely pursuits, my intention was not solely to cater to their tastes. I was fascinated by the underlying human emotions present in all social strata, even if my scenes primarily showcase a particular class. The 'Signboard of Gersaint,' for instance, shows the process of art appreciation itself. My focus on the universal themes of beauty, love, and the passage of time seeks a resonance that can speak beyond any single social group, even if the outward appearances are of a refined world.
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