Julien Dupré (French, 1851-1910)

Following in the tradition of some of the most influential artists of the 19th century, such as Gustave Courbet and Jules Breton, Dupré is considered to be among the leading artists of the second generation of Realist painters. Dupré's intense palette and spontaneous brushwork have a freshness and vigour that distinguishes his works from the more somber work of his predecessors. This finely modelled figure pays tribute to Dupré's academic training, as well as his studies devoted to Breton and Bouguereau. His freer handling of the background areas shows the influence of the Impressionists. Dupré received his artistic training from Isidore Pils, Desire-Francois Laugie and Henri Lehmann. He exhibited his first painting at the Paris Salon in 1876 and thereafter became a regular exhibitor until his death in 1910. He was honoured with a gold medal at the Paris Fair of 1889 and in 1892 was awarded the Legion d' Honeur. His work was sought after internationally, notably in the United States.