A Young Girl Reading
Jean-Honoré Fragonard · 1770
Why it's great
A girl in a glowing yellow dress leans on a plump pillow, absorbed in her book. Fragonard painted her with quick, feathery brushwork, almost like he was sketching in paint. It celebrates the quiet pleasure of reading, which still feels familiar today. It's one of the most charming pictures in the National Gallery of Art in Washington.
Where to see it
📍 National Gallery of ArtWashington, D.C., United States
Open in Maps ↗ About this museum →Hang it on your wall
Three places to look for a print of this painting, from budget to museum-grade:
These links open search results on each shop's own website; we don't sell anything or earn a commission, and print quality varies by seller. Ask a grown-up before you buy anything.
About the artist
Jean-Honoré Fragonard1732–1806 · born in Grasse · died in former 2nd arrondissement of Paris
Jean-Honoré Fragonard was born in Grasse, in the south of France, and moved to Paris as a boy. He studied in Italy and became a star of the Rococo style, painting playful, romantic scenes for the nobility. After the French Revolution, his style fell out of fashion, and he spent his last years nearly forgotten in Paris. Today we again admire his speed and charm.
