Early Life and Training
Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin, a renowned French painter, was born in Paris on November 2, 1699. He was the son of a cabinetmaker and rarely left the city. Chardin's artistic journey began with apprenticeships under the guidance of history painters
Pierre-Jacques Cazes and
Noël-Nicolas Coypel. In 1724, he became a master in the Académie de Saint-Luc.
Rise to Prominence
Chardin's big break came when his painting caught the attention of
Van Loo, who not only purchased the piece but also assisted the young artist. This led to Chardin's admission into the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture in 1728, presenting
The Ray. He continued to exhibit regularly at the Salon from 1737, attending meetings for fifty years and holding various positions within the institution.
Artistic Style and Themes
Chardin's work is characterized by carefully balanced composition, soft diffusion of light, and granular impasto. His subjects often featured kitchen maids, children, and domestic activities, as seen in
Woman Sealing a Letter (ca. 1733) and
Le Bénédicité. These humble scenes not only showcased his artistic skill but also provided documentary information about French society.
Legacy and Later Life
Chardin's popularity grew through reproductive engravings of his genre paintings, earning him a substantial income. In 1752, he was granted a pension of 500 livres by
Louis XV. Chardin's last known oil painting was dated 1776, and his final Salon participation was in 1779. He passed away on December 6, 1779, at the age of 80.
Notable Works:
Museums featuring Chardin's work: