René Gaillard

René Gaillard was an artist known primarily for his production of prints, active across much of the 18th century, spanning the years 1719 through 1766.

Working within the stylistic parameters of the period, Gaillard’s subject matter included mythological, romantic, and genre scenes. His documented works often address themes of love, courtship, and pastoral settings, reflecting popular tastes in 18th-century graphic arts. Notable works include the allegorical Venus et les amours, the matrimonial scene L'accord du mariage, and the sentimental piece Le Berger Recompensé (The Rewarded Shepherd). Other documented prints by Gaillard are Le bouquet and Le moineau de lesbie.

The enduring significance and museum-quality of René Gaillard's output are established by the presence of his work in leading public collections. Fifteen of his prints are documented in these major institutions, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the National Gallery of Art. Because of their age, these historical works are now widely available in the public domain, allowing institutions to offer high-quality prints derived from the original plates. The preservation of René Gaillard prints ensures continued scholarship on 18th-century printmaking techniques.