Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin was a French artist who lived during the 18th century. His artistic production was slow and careful, only painting about 4 paintings a year, however he remains a major influence on the art of the modern era. Chardin was mostly known for still art, which contained inanimate objects like fruit and hunting gear, as well as genre scenes, also known as scenes of casual everyday life. Through these genre scenes, a new subject arose in his art: childhood. Chardin’s “snapshots” of everyday life offered a view of short-lived moments children get to experience. He captures childhood from a different and unique perspective, and most importantly, gives these children a more proper and accurate identity. His depiction of childhood is one that stood out to many others, as they also looked at Chardin and his work for guidance. His art did a fantastic job of catching the moment, and as he did that with children, viewers get a beautiful glimpse into the childhood of those from the 18th century and even sympathize with the child and understand them.  

In my research, I review texts and scholarly articles about Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin. I examine his history and experiences and see how this may have influenced his depiction of childhood in his art. I will also explore the ways that artists were influenced by him and relevant art historical theories on his works. I compare his paintings of children with similar portrayals of children in the Renaissance to analyze the difference in depictions of children in these two eras.