Bretez, Louis Paintings

Louis Bretez was a French artist and cartographer best known for his detailed plan of Paris, known as the 'Plan de Turgot,' which he completed in 1739. Bretez was born in 1655 in Paris, and although not much is known about his early life and training, he went on to become a member of the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture in 1716.

As a cartographer, Bretez was commissioned by Michel-Étienne Turgot, the Provost of the Merchants of Paris, to create a comprehensive and accurate street map of Paris. This project was a significant undertaking because it involved the meticulous depiction of each building, street, and landmark of the city as seen from an oblique angle. The 'Plan de Turgot' was produced in 20 sheets and is considered one of the most remarkable achievements in urban cartography of the 18th century.

Bretez's work on the 'Plan de Turgot' not only provided a detailed representation of Paris during that period but also showcased his skill in perspective drawing and his ability to capture the grandeur and complexity of the city's architecture and urban layout. The plan remains an invaluable resource for historians and art historians who seek to understand the urban development and architectural history of Paris.

Louis Bretez's contribution to the arts extends beyond his work as a cartographer. He was also involved in teaching perspective, which further indicates his proficiency in the subject and his importance in the academic circles of his time.

Sadly, little is known about his personal life, and his works beyond the 'Plan de Turgot' did not receive the same level of recognition. Louis Bretez passed away in 1725, leaving behind a legacy that would be cherished by future generations interested in cartography, urban planning, and the history of Paris.