Early Life and Training
Jean-Baptiste Greuze, a French painter, was born on August 21, 1725, in Tournus, Burgundy. His father, a master roofer, initially discouraged his son's artistic inclinations, but eventually, Grandon, a Lyonnese artist, encouraged Greuze to pursue his passion. In 1750, Greuze moved to Paris to study under
Charles-Joseph Natoire at the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture.
Rise to Fame
Greuze's breakthrough came in 1755 with his painting
Le Père de famille expliquant la Bible à ses enfants, which was purchased by a wealthy art enthusiast,
Ange-Laurent Lalive de Jully. This led to Greuze's recognition among philosophers and the art community. He then traveled to Italy with
Abbé Gougenot, where he spent about a year, inspiring his future works.
Artistic Style and Notable Works
Greuze's style is characterized by his focus on genre scenes, capturing the essence of everyday life. Some notable works include:
Legacy and Later Life
Greuze's success peaked in 1765, with thirteen works exhibited at the Salon, including
La Jeune Fille qui pleure son oiseau mort,
La Bonne Mère, and
Le Mauvais fils puni (Louvre). However, his attempt to transition into historical painting was met with criticism. Greuze passed away on March 4, 1805, in the Louvre, after a life marked by both artistic triumphs and financial struggles.
Key Dates:
1725: Born in Tournus, Burgundy
1750: Moved to Paris to study under Charles-Joseph Natoire
1755: Breakthrough with
Le Père de famille expliquant la Bible à ses enfants
1765: Peak of success with thirteen works exhibited at the Salon
1805: Passed away in the Louvre