Circa 1754
Canvas, oil paint
100 x 210 (outlines of figures)

This decorative panel was intended to be used for the finishing of the interior. Its subject is simple and engaging: gracious ladies and courtiers are conversing and reading against the background of a park and ruins. The composition employs the language of allegory which was widespread in the art of the 18th century. Alongside the tomb which one of the gallants points to a dead tree, the symbol of death, is depicted. In the right part of the painting a stream of water is depicted; this embodies the speedy passage of life. Ruins were the favourite decoration of parks in the 18th century. They aroused melancholy thoughts about the frailty of all that exists in the face of time. The lush foliage of the trees, the rose and light blue colours in the distance which meld in the distance with silhouettes – all of these elements in the composition are refined, smart and conventionally decorative.