early life and training
pierre-henri de valenciennes, a french painter, was born on december 6, 1750. his birthplace is not specified in available records, but his contributions to the art world are well-documented. de valenciennes' early training and education are not extensively recorded, but it is known that he worked in rome from 1778 to 1782, where he made a number of landscape studies directly from nature.
contributions to en plein air painting
de valenciennes was influential in elevating the status of
en plein air (open-air painting). his work in rome led to the development of his theory, which he outlined in his 1800 treatise
reflections and advice to a student on painting, particularly on landscape. this concept introduced the idea of a 'landscape portrait,' where an artist paints a landscape directly while looking upon it, capturing its particular details. this approach allowed de valenciennes to capture the fleeting changes of a landscape due to light and weather.
notable students and influence
among his notable students were
jean-victor bertin,
achille etna michallon,
louis étienne watelet,
louis-françois lejeune, and the first french panorama painter
pierre prévost. de valenciennes' influence on these artists and his contributions to the development of en plein air painting have left a lasting impact on the art world.
later life and death
de valenciennes passed away in paris on february 16, 1819. he is buried in the
père lachaise cemetery, a famous cemetery in paris known for its notable residents.
legacy
pierre-henri de valenciennes's legacy in the art world is undeniable. his pioneering work in en plein air painting has inspired generations of artists, and his influence can still be seen today. through his treatise and his students, de valenciennes has left an indelible mark on the world of art.
