Early Life and Training
Charles Nègre, a French photographer and painter, was born on May 9, 1820, in Grasse, France. He studied under the guidance of renowned painters
Paul Delaroche, Ingres, and Drolling. Nègre's early training laid the foundation for his future artistic endeavors.
Photographic Career
Nègre established his own studio at 21 Quai Bourbon on the Île Saint-Louis, Paris. He began with the daguerreotype process, later transitioning to calotypes. A notable work, "Chimney-Sweeps Walking" (1851), an albumen print, is considered a significant early instance of capturing movement in photography.
Notable Works and Commissions
- La Porte Royale de la Cathédrale de Chartres (1861) - a gravure showcasing his skill in capturing architectural details.
- A commission by Empress Eugénie to photograph the Imperial Asylum in the Bois de Vincennes (1859), highlighting his ability to document significant institutions.
- His photographs of buildings in Grasse (1852) are seen as a precursor to art photography, demonstrating his innovative approach.
Museum Collections and Legacy
Nègre's work can be found in various museums, including:
Key Contributions:
Nègre's pioneering work in photography, particularly his early experiments with capturing movement and his innovative approach to architectural photography, have left a lasting impact on the art world.
- View Nègre's paintings and photographs on WahooArt.
- Explore more about Charles Nègre's life and work on Wikipedia.