Watteau's Pierrot, also known as Gilles, is one of the most iconic masterpieces in the Musée du Louvre's collections. This mysterious painting has been the subject of speculation by historians for decades. Currently undergoing restoration at the Centre de recherche et de restauration des musées de France, on completion it will form the heart of an unprecedented exhibition.

Nothing is known about the work prior to its discovery by Dominique Vivant Denon (1747-1825), artist and collector and director of the Louvre under Napoleon. It rapidly became considered as a masterpiece by Watteau and celebrated by renowned writers and art historians. For many, it embodies a certain image of the 18th century, according to the author and period, either malicious, cynical or melancholic. Its prestige played a considerable part in the return to favour of 18th century art at the time of Manet and Nadar.

The exhibition will analyse the data revealed during restoration and explore this completely unique painting, the attribution of which has sometimes been contested, within Watteau's work as well as the cultural and artistic context that inspired it. Numerous works by Watteau (paintings, drawings) will be gathered, along with works by his contemporaries, painters, designers, engravers (Gillot, Pater, Lancret, Oudry, Fragonard, etc) and writers (Marivaux, Lesage, Regnard, Evaristo Gherardi), giving pride of place to the rich theatrical repertoire of the time.

Even before it entered the collections of the Louvre in 1869 as part of the bequest of Louis La Caze (1798-1869), this painting had captivated onlookers for generations. This powerful allure is undoubtedly based on its exceptional quality, but also on its uniqueness in its century and the mystery surrounding its creation.

This exhibition is supported by the Kythera Kultur-Stiftung.

In media partnership with Le Monde and Connaissance des Arts.