Painter. He was one of France's most popular painters of the late 1800s. A leader of the Academic School, Bouguereau specialized in carefully detailed mythological and genre scenes, and was particularly noted for his tender portrayals of children. "The Abduction of Psyche" in 1895 is probably his best-known work. Today many critics dismiss his style as kitsch and do not look kindly on his harmful opposition to new creative trends, yet his exquisite craftsmanship is undeniable. Bouguereau completed over 800 paintings, many of them life-sized. Born Adolphe William Bouguereau, he never used his first name. He studied at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts and received the Prix de Rome in 1850. In 1868 he built a lavish studio in Montparnasse and helped make that area the foremost artists' quarter in Paris. Around this time, he also began a liaison with one of his students, American painter Elizabeth Gardner; Bouguereau's mother opposed the relationship and the couple did not marry until her death in 1896. As comparatively obscure as he is these days, it's difficult to imagine what a star Bouguereau was in the art world of his era. He worked hard to fulfil his many commissions as his paintings were in great demand, fetching high prices, that he once boasted, "I lose five francs every time I pee." Engraved reproductions of his works sold in the millions. Along with wealth and fame came many honors, including being elected to the Institute of France and being named a Grand Officer of the Legion of Honor.
Painter. He was one of France's most popular painters of the late 1800s. A leader of the Academic School, Bouguereau specialized in carefully detailed mythological and genre scenes, and was particularly noted for his tender portrayals of children. "The Abduction of Psyche" in 1895 is probably his best-known work. Today many critics dismiss his style as kitsch and do not look kindly on his harmful opposition to new creative trends, yet his exquisite craftsmanship is undeniable. Bouguereau completed over 800 paintings, many of them life-sized. Born Adolphe William Bouguereau, he never used his first name. He studied at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts and received the Prix de Rome in 1850. In 1868 he built a lavish studio in Montparnasse and helped make that area the foremost artists' quarter in Paris. Around this time, he also began a liaison with one of his students, American painter Elizabeth Gardner; Bouguereau's mother opposed the relationship and the couple did not marry until her death in 1896. As comparatively obscure as he is these days, it's difficult to imagine what a star Bouguereau was in the art world of his era. He worked hard to fulfil his many commissions as his paintings were in great demand, fetching high prices, that he once boasted, "I lose five francs every time I pee." Engraved reproductions of his works sold in the millions. Along with wealth and fame came many honors, including being elected to the Institute of France and being named a Grand Officer of the Legion of Honor.
Bio by: Bobb Edwards
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