Themost famous artistof all time is a difficult question for anyone to pinpoint.
Today, many people might sayVincent van Gogh,Claude Monet, orFrida Kahlo.
However, just a couple of decades ago, people might have given different answers.
Born and trained in France, Bouguereau was an upholder of the French academic style.
Here, we will learn more about Bouguereau’s art and why the Impressionists fought against it.
Who is William-Adolphe Bouguereau?
William-Adolphe Bouguereau, “Self-Portrait,” 1879 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)
It was in Italy that he nurtured a love of classical subjects.
Due to his fame and success, Bouguereau became symbolic of the values of the Salon.
In France, these ideas were taught at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts where Bouguereau himself studied.
William-Adolphe Bouguereau, “The Nut Gatherers,” 1882 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)
This would ultimately result in the formation of the firstImpressionistexhibitions.
He was greatly inspired by the Renaissance masterRaphaeland took a similar approach in his own work.
Hisfemale figures, whether portraits or symbolic representations of the time of day possess graceful and ethereal qualities.
Left: William-Adolphe Bouguereau, “Evening,” 1882 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)Right: William-Adolphe Bouguereau, “Dawn,” 1881 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)
One of the most reoccurring themes in his work referencedGreek and Roman mythology.
Depicting nymphs, goddesses, and other classical figures allowed Bouguereau’s polished style to shine.
In these paintings, he created an idealized world of beautiful men and women and cheerful cherubs.
William-Adolphe Bouguereau, “The Birth of Venus,” 1879 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)
However, he was not interested in portraying the reality of country life likeRealistpaintersJean-Francois MilletandGustave Courbet.
However, he also lived parallel to the risingImpressionist movementwhich fought the strict limitations of the prestigious Salon.
People once again criticized the waxen, polished way his figures were rendered.
William-Adolphe Bouguereau, “The Young Shepherdess,” 1885 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is William-Adolphe Bouguereau known for?
Where is William-Adolphe Bouguereau from?
William-Adolphe Bouguereau is from La Rochelle, France.
Left: William-Adolphe Bouguereau, “The Nymphs and Satyr,” 1873 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)Right: Edgar Degas, “Musicians in the Orchestra,” 1872 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)
What style of art is Bouguereau?
William-Adolphe Bouguereau painted in the French academic style.
Learn About the Art and Life of One of Pointillisms Founders
William-Adolphe Bouguereau, “A Dream of Spring,” 1901 (Photo:Wikimedia Commons, Public domain)
