Louis Auguste Mathieu Le Grand Paintings

Louis Auguste Mathieu Legrand, commonly known as Louis Legrand, was a French artist born on September 29, 1863, in the city of Dijon. He was best known for his etchings, drawings, and paintings that captured the lively atmosphere of Parisian life at the turn of the 20th century. His works often depicted scenes of the ballet, the circus, the cabarets, as well as intimate moments of daily life. He demonstrated a particular fondness for portraying the female figure, with a delicate and sensitive approach that was both modern and evocative.

Legrand was initially trained at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Dijon before moving to Paris, where he continued his studies under the academic painter Jean-Léon Gérôme, a prominent figure in the French art world of the time. Despite this traditional academic training, Legrand’s style was influenced by the Impressionists and Symbolists, as well as by the work of the great printmaker and painter, Francisco Goya. His technique, particularly in etching and drypoint, showed a remarkable freedom and spontaneity that won him critical acclaim.

In 1893, Legrand began collaborating with the publisher Gustave Pellet, who was well-known for promoting the works of Toulouse-Lautrec. This collaboration was crucial for Legrand’s development as an artist. Pellet published many of Legrand's series of etchings, which contributed significantly to the revival of the etching medium in France at that time. Among his notable series were 'Les Petites du Ballet' (1893) and 'Parisian Pleasures' (1893), which captured the essence of Parisian nightlife.

Louis Legrand was awarded the Legion of Honour in 1906, which was a testament to his impact on French art and printmaking. He continued to work and exhibit throughout his life, contributing to the artistic scene in Paris and beyond. His later works included a series of watercolors that were well-received by critics and the public alike.

Legrand's influence extended beyond his lifetime, as his works continued to be appreciated for their lyrical and often intimate portrayal of Parisian society. He passed away on June 1951, leaving behind a body of work that captures the spirit of an era and continues to be celebrated for its artistic merit and historical significance.