Narcissus

Early Life and Education

• Born: July 18, 1829, Nogent-sur-Seine, France
• Initially studied law to please his father, a notary.
• Abandoned legal studies to pursue sculpture.
• Influenced by the work of his great-uncle, Jean-Baptiste Pigalle.
• Debut at the Paris Salon in 1857 under the name Dubois-Pigalle.
• Studied at the École Nationale des Beaux-Arts under Armand Toussaint.
• Traveled to Rome in 1860, studying and copying classical sculptures.

Career and Artistic Development

• Resided in Rome for four years, developing his skills and artistic style.
• Awarded "une médaille de 2° classe" by the Paris Salon in 1863 for works created in Rome (Saint Jean-Baptiste and Narcisse).
• Returned to France and completed "Chanteur florentin du XVe siècle," a highly popular work.
• Received *médaille d'honneur* at the Salon des beaux-arts in 1865 and 1876.
• Became Chevalier of the Légion d'honneur in 1867, later promoted to Officer (1874), Commander (1886), and Grand Croix (1889).
• Developed a significant portrait painting practice alongside his sculpture work after 1870.
• Taught at the Académie Julian.
• His style evolved from Italian influences to a more individual expression.

Major Works and Achievements

• Equestrian Statue of Joan of Arc: Located in Place Saint-Augustin, Paris. A significant public work demonstrating his skill in equestrian sculpture.
• Bust of Alexandre Cabanel: Showcases his portraiture abilities.
• Eve Naissante: Housed in the Petit Palais, Paris.
• Narcissus (1866): Located on the north façade of the Cour Carrée in the Louvre Palace, Paris.
• Military Courage Statue: A reproduction located in Mount Vernon, Baltimore.
• Equestrian statue of Anne de Montmorency: Situated in the Château de Chantilly.
• Monument/Cenotaph to General de la Moricière: Located in Nantes Cathedral.
• The Tomb of General Lamoricire: A masterpiece in the cathedral of Nantes, showcasing allegorical figures and reliefs.

Later Life and Legacy

• Died from pneumonia on May 23, 1905.
• His work reflects a blend of classical influences and personal artistic expression.
• Recognized for his skill in both sculpture and painting.
• Awarded numerous honors throughout his career, including the Légion d'honneur.
• Established a museum with Alfred Boucher containing information relating to his work.
• His works are displayed in prominent locations such as the Louvre Palace and Petit Palais.