Jean, Le Romain Alaux Paintings

Jean Alaux, known as Le Romain due to his long stay in Rome, was a French historical painter born on May 1786 in Bordeaux, France. He was the son of the painter Jean Alaux (the Elder) and was part of a family with several notable artists, including his three brothers who were also painters.

Jean Alaux received his initial training from his father and later from Pierre Lacour. In 1807, he won the prestigious Prix de Rome for painting, which allowed him to study at the French Academy in Rome, L'École Française de Rome, from 1807 to 1812. During his time in Rome, he was heavily influenced by the works of the Italian masters and the ancient ruins, which shaped his neoclassical style.

After returning to France, Alaux worked on several significant commissions, many of which were large-scale historical and allegorical paintings. He became known for his work as a 'peintre d'histoire', a term used for painters who specialized in historical scenes. Throughout his career, Alaux received various honors, including his appointment as a member of the Académie des Beaux-Arts in 1846.

Alaux's works include decorations for the Château de Versailles, contributions to the decoration of the Hôtel de Ville in Paris, and various religious and historical paintings. His style is characterized by its clear composition, precise drawing, and a palette that often included soft, harmonious colors.

Jean Alaux continued to paint until his death in March 1864 in Paris. His legacy is preserved in the form of his contributions to French neoclassical painting, and his works can be found in various museums and collections throughout France.