“The Hesitant Fiancée,” a painting from 1866 by French artist Auguste Toulmouche, has gone viral on TikTok, showcasing the enduring power of art to connect with modern audiences. The painting depicts a young bride dressed in Victorian attire, with a defiant expression ranging from contempt to fury. Its recent popularity on TikTok has led to comparisons with Phoebe WallerBridge’s “Fleabag,” as both feature female protagonists breaking the fourth wall to confront their struggles. The painting’s newfound fame reflects the timeless ability of art to reflect and transcend human emotions and experiences.
