Pierre Paul Prud'hon

Pierre Paul Prud'hon (1758-1823) was a French painter and draughtsman associated with the neoclassical movement. Born in Burgundy, he moved to Paris to study painting under various masters before winning the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1784. During his four-year stay in Rome, Prud'hon became interested in Italian Renaissance painting and the works of Raphael, which would have a lasting influence on his style. Prud'hon's works often featured idealized, mythological figures and dramatic chiaroscuro lighting. He also gained recognition for his portraits, which were marked by their psychological depth and subtle handling of color. In addition to painting, Prud'hon was also a skilled draughtsman and printmaker, creating delicate and detailed works in pencil, chalk, and ink. Despite his success during his lifetime, Prud'hon's reputation suffered after his death, and it was not until the 20th century that his work was fully appreciated.