Henri Emile Lessore Paintings

Henri Emile Lessore was a French artist known for his paintings and works in watercolor. Born on December 12, 1815, in Paris, France, he was part of a family with an artistic legacy; his father, Jean-Baptiste Lessore, was also a painter. Henri Lessore initially trained under his father and later studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris under the guidance of Léon Cogniet, a distinguished French history and portrait painter.

Lessore began his career exhibiting at the Paris Salon in 1834. His early work largely consisted of genre scenes, landscapes, and historical paintings. He was influenced by the Romantic movement, which was prevalent during his formative years, and this influence is evident in his choice of subjects and the emotive quality of his paintings.

Throughout his career, Henri Lessore traveled extensively, which enriched his artistic practice. He visited countries such as England and Italy, where he was inspired by the local scenery and the works of old masters. His travels led to a diversification of his subjects, and he began incorporating more scenes from everyday life into his oeuvre.

In addition to his painting, Lessore was also an accomplished watercolorist and printmaker. He became a member of the Société des Aquarellistes Français, a society that promoted watercolor painting in France. His contributions to the medium were well-regarded, and he participated in various exhibitions showcasing watercolors.

Despite his talents, Henri Lessore did not achieve the same level of fame as some of his contemporaries. Nevertheless, his works were appreciated by critics and collectors for their delicate execution and attention to detail. Lessore continued to exhibit his work throughout his life, remaining active in the French art scene until his passing.

Henri Emile Lessore died on September 21, 1876, in the town of Ecouen, France. Although he is not as widely known today as some other artists of his era, his works are still appreciated by art historians and collectors for their contribution to 19th-century French art. His paintings are held in various collections and have been displayed in museums in France and abroad.