Best known for his fetes galantes such as the famous Pelerinage a l'ile deCythere, Antoine Watteau (1684-1721) was a major proponent in the revivalof the Baroque style and the formation of the Rococo movement. Watteau wasinspired by the theater and in particular the commedia dell'arte, henceelaborately costumed actors, dancers, and musicians were recurrentsubjects; he was also fond of bucolic scenes and portraiture. Infused withromance, drama, and joie de vivre, Watteau's paintings depict a idyllicworld of pleasure and entertainment.Every book in "Taschen's Basic ArtSeries" features: a detailed chronological summary of the artist's lifeand work, covering the cultural and historical importance of the artist;approximately 100 color illustrations with explanatory captions; and, aconcise biography.