Auguste Ambroise Borget, a French artist known for his drawings and prints of exotic places, particularly China, was born in 1808 in Issoudun, Indre. At the age of 21, he moved to Paris, where he became a close friend of Honoré de Balzac. Borget periodically exhibited at the Paris Salon from 1836 to 1859.

Early Life and Travels

In 1836, Borget began his travels through North and South America, briefly stopping in Honolulu in May 1838 on board the ship 'Psyche'. He then traveled to Canton in September 1838, where he stayed for 10 months. During this time, he met the English artist George Chinnery, with whom he went on sketching trips. In July 1839, Borget visited Manila, Singapore, and Calcutta.

Artistic Style and Technique

Borget's sketches and watercolors from China were the basis for his most famous publication, Sketches of China and the Chinese, published in 1842. His book La Chine ouverte was illustrated with fine woodcut engravings. A major Salon of his original works, including watercolors and boldly executed oil paintings, was held in Paris in 1843.

• Some of Borget's notable works can be found on WahooArt, including his painting Marché Près de Macau.
• His artwork is characterized by its exotic and orientalist themes, reflecting his travels to Asia.
• Borget's use of color and composition creates a sense of serenity and tranquility in his paintings.

Legacy and Influence

Auguste Ambroise Borget died in 1877, leaving behind a legacy of exotic landscapes and orientalist artwork. His contributions to the art world can be seen in the works of other artists, such as Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Camille Pissarro, who also explored the use of color and composition in their paintings.

• Pierre-Auguste Renoir's Seated Bather 1 is an example of his use of color and composition.
• Camille Pissarro's The Cowherd is another example of the use of color and composition in Impressionist artwork.
• Borget's influence can be seen in the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire in France, which houses an impressive collection of artworks from various periods and styles.

Conclusion

Auguste Ambroise Borget was a French artist known for his exotic landscapes and orientalist artwork. His travels to Asia and his use of color and composition created a sense of serenity and tranquility in his paintings. His legacy can be seen in the works of other artists, such as Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Camille Pissarro, who also explored the use of color and composition in their paintings.