Paul Cézanne
- Born:
- January 19, 1839, Aix-en-Provence, France
- Died:
- October 22, 1906, Aix-en-Provence, France
- Nationality:
- French
- Profession(s):
- Painter
Early Life and Education
- Born into a wealthy family in Aix-en-Provence.
- Initially studied law at the University of Aix-en-Provence.
- Abandoned law studies to pursue painting in Paris against his father's initial wishes.
- Briefly attended the Académie Suisse in Paris, where he met Camille Pissarro.
Career and Major Achievements
- Early works were characterized by dark colors and heavy impasto.
- Influenced by Impressionism in the 1870s, particularly through his relationship with Pissarro.
- Developed a unique Post-Impressionist style characterized by simplified forms and geometric structures.
- Worked extensively on still life paintings, landscapes, and portraits.
- Rejected by the Salon on numerous occasions, hindering early recognition.
- Began to gain recognition in the late 1890s and early 1900s.
Notable Works
- The Bathers (numerous versions)
- Mont Sainte-Victoire (series of paintings)
- Still Life with Apples and Oranges
- The Card Players (series of paintings)
- House of the Hanged Man
Legacy and Impact
Paul Cézanne is considered one of the most influential artists of the 19th century, bridging the gap between Impressionism and Cubism. His emphasis on structure and form revolutionized painting and profoundly impacted subsequent generations of artists. Studying a paul cezanne biography timeline reveals the consistent dedication to his unique vision which cemented his legacy as a father of modern art.