Lagrenée L'aîné, Lagrenée The Elder

Place: Paris

Born: 1724

Death: 1805

Biography:

Early Life and Training

, a renowned French rococo painter, was born on December 30, 1724, in Paris, France. From an early age, he showed promise in drawing and painting, which led to his selection for the École royale des élèves protégés, a prestigious program under the tutelage of Carle Van Loo. This three-year program prepared him for the Prix de Rome competition, which he won in 1749 with the painting Joseph interpreting the dreams of Pharaoh (now lost).

Artistic Career and Notable Works

Lagrenée's artistic style was heavily influenced by the Bolognese School, particularly Guido Reni and Francesco Albani. His work is characterized by its formative and youthful fixation with Baroque painting. Some of his notable works include:

• The Abduction of Deianira by the Centaur Nessus (1755), showcasing his mastery of rococo style.
• Landscape with Salmacis and Hermaphroditus, a fine example of his oil painting skills, now housed in the Mauritshuis (The Hague, Netherlands).
• Cérès and Triptolème (1769), a part of the décor at the Petit Trianon of Versailles, demonstrating his ability to create grand, yet delicate pieces.

Awards and Affiliations

Lagrenée's achievements were recognized through various awards and affiliations:

• Winner of the Grand Prix de Rome in 1749
• Elected a member of the Académie royale de peinture et de sculpture in 1755
• Professor at the Académie des beaux-arts de Saint-Pétersbourg (1760-1762)
• Participant in the décor of various royal residences, including Choisy, Fontainebleau, and Bellevue

Legacy and Availability of Works

Lagrenée's legacy can be seen in his numerous works, with over 460 tableaux documented. His art is a testament to his prolific career as a painter. To explore more of Lagrenée's work or to order museum-quality copies, visit Wikioo.org, which offers an extensive collection of art masterpieces, including those by Lagrenée. Discover the Wonders of Musée Maurice Denis (France) with Wikioo.org, featuring a collection of French post-impressionism paintings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Explore Musée National Jean-jacques Henner, a must-visit museum for art enthusiasts, showcasing an impressive collection of Western paintings from the 17th to the 20th century. Learn more about Lagrenée's life and work on FranceArchives. For a deeper understanding of his artistic style, visit Wikipedia's page on Louis-Jean-François Lagrenée.