Pierre Puvis de Chavannes - the Painter for France

Today marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of influential French Symbolist artist Pierre Puvis de Chavannes, known as "the Painter for France".

Celebrated for his monumental murals and association with Symbolism, Puvis de Chavannes is known for his muted palette, ethereal compositions, and focus on allegorical, idealised themes. His work is often viewed as paving the way for modernist movements such as Symbolism and early abstraction.

The Poor Fisherman (1881)

His notable works comprise "The Sacred Grove" (1884), “Death and the Maidens (1872),” “The Dream (1883),” “The Poor Fisherman (1881),” plus murals adorning the Panthéon in Paris and the Boston Public Library.

Modernist painters, especially Symbolists such as Gustav Klimt and early abstract artists like Wassily Kandinsky, were heavily influenced by Puvis de Chavannes.

The fusion of classical and modern elements in his work inspired subsequent artists to delve into abstraction and spirituality.