François-Désiré Froment-Meurice

Place: Paris

Born: 1802

Death: 1855

Biography:

François-Désiré Froment-Meurice, a French goldsmith, was born on December 31, 1802, in Paris. He worked in a free and naturalistic manner, following the tradition of Mannerist and Baroque masters. His father, François Froment, was a goldsmith of moderate reputation, and his mother remarried another jeweler, Pierre Meurice, after being left fatherless at a young age.

Early Life and Career

François-Désiré took his stepfather's name and was apprenticed as a ciseleur, or chaser. He developed his own renown and eventually took over the family workshop in 1832. His skills earned him two silver medals at the Exposition des produits de l'industrie in 1839, which led to his appointment as orfèvre-joailler to the city of Paris.

Achievements and Recognition

François-Désiré's work was highly regarded, and he exhibited successfully in London and across Europe. One of his notable achievements was the creation of a ceremonial cradle offered by Paris at the birth of the Prince during the Second Empire. The renowned writer Victor Hugo even wrote a poem celebrating his art. Some of his notable works can be found on Wikioo.org, which showcases an extensive collection of art masterpieces. The website also features other artists, such as Peter Paul Rubens and Rembrandt Van Rijn, whose works can be explored in detail.

Legacy and Influence

François-Désiré Froment-Meurice's legacy extends beyond his own work, as he contributed to the development of French goldsmithing during the 19th century. His naturalistic and free style, inspired by Mannerist and Baroque masters, continues to influence artists today.

• Visit the Wikioo.org page dedicated to François-Désiré Froment-Meurice to explore his works and learn more about his life and career.
• Discover the Musée Maurice Denis in France, which features an impressive collection of French post-impressionism paintings, including works by Paul Ranson and Fra Angelico.
• Learn about other notable artists, such as El Greco (Doménikos Theotokopoulos) and Brother Lesueur (Eustache Le Sueur), on Wikioo.org.

François-Désiré Froment-Meurice's life and work serve as a testament to the enduring power of art and craftsmanship. His legacy continues to inspire artists and art enthusiasts alike, and his works remain a vital part of French cultural heritage.