François-Simon Périllon was a French sculptor born in Lyon in 1828. He belonged to the 19th century school of French sculpture that was heavily influenced by neoclassical traditions as well as the later Romantic movement. Périllon was trained in the fine arts in France and developed his craft under the tutelage of established artists of his time. He was known for his skillful work in marble and bronze, and his sculptures often reflected themes of mythology, history, and allegory, which were popular in the period's academic art circles.
Périllon's work was notable for its fine detail, sense of movement, and emotional expression, capturing the spirit of both neoclassicism and romanticism. His sculptures were exhibited in the Salon, the official art exhibition of the Académie des Beaux-Arts in Paris, which was the principal showcase for French artists to display their latest works to the public and potential patrons. Gaining recognition through the Salon was crucial for artists of Périllon's time as it often led to commissions and further opportunities to establish one's reputation.
The latter part of the 19th century, during which Périllon was active, was a period of transformation in the arts in France. The rise of impressionism and post-impressionism was beginning to challenge the traditional approaches and subjects that had dominated French art. While Périllon remained rooted in the more classical and romantic traditions, the evolving artistic landscape would eventually lead to a reevaluation of the work of many artists of his era.
François-Simon Périllon passed away in 1904. While he may not be as widely known as some of his contemporaries, his contributions to 19th-century French sculpture are part of the rich tapestry of European art history. His works can still be appreciated today for their craftsmanship and the glimpse they provide into the aesthetic values of his time.