DELACROIX

Art geniuses

An episode from the series THE GREAT MASTERS OF PAINTING

Synopsis

Eugène Delacroix is a major figure of romanticism which appeared in France in the early 1800's.

Even though he is supported by the press, art reviews and critics, the official art establishment will only belatedly recognize his genius. The 1855 Exposition Universelle in Paris sees his triumph as he becomes the one who managed to surpass his classical background to renew painting.

His work shows a great mastery of colours and will inspire numerous painters such as Vincent Van Gogh for example. The Duc de Morny, president of the legislative body and half brother of Napoleon III, names Delacroix the official painter of the Second Empire.