Paul Delaroche - A Short History

Paul Delaroche was worn in 1797 in Paris. His real1845. Paul is said to have never fully recovered
name was Hippolyte Delaroche. His father was afrom the shock of the death of Louise. Louise
wealthy, successful trader and was delighted thatwas the only daughter of the Director of the
Paul showed talent as an artist at an early age.French Academy, Horace Vernet. Paul got on well
Paul was placed under the tutelage of L Ewith his father-in-law and traveled to Italy with
Waterlet (a landscape painter) and later Baronhim on two occasions, in 1838 and 1843. Following
Gros (from 1818), who painted life size historicalLouise's death many have argued that Paul
scenes. He later went on to become a successfulpainted his best series of works about the
teacher himself.Passion. The scenes, depicting the virgin, and
He painted a wide range of historical scenes, butPeter and John in a dark room, shows the divine
was particularly inspired by English history as canstory in a simple and effective way.
be seen form the painting "The death of QueenPaul was commissioned to paint a large painting
Elizabeth" in 1828. He also painted religious art, and(27 m long) in the lecture theatre of the Ecole
during his life his work received wide internationaldes Beaux Arts in Paris. The picture represents
acclaim, although as with all artists there werethe great artists of modern times with the
some notable detractors, like Theophile Gautier.thrones at the top filled by architects and
In 1832, at the age of 35, Paul was the youngestsculptors. Female elements are added in the form
artist to be elected to the Institut National desof genii and muses, symbolizing ownership and
Sciences et des Arts.appreciation of the arts. The detail is exquisite and
Paul had a studio in Paris and taught many giftedclear. He completed the work in 1841, and
students there. In 1835, he painted "Head of anunfortunately there was damage from a fire in
Angel", a study of Louise Vernet, his love for1855. He commenced the repair but died prior to
whom became his passion in life.its completion.
He married Louise Vernet in 1835, and she died in