Laurent Pécheux (1729–1821): A Roman Neoclassical Master Laurent Pécheux (1729–1821) stands as a pivotal figure in the artistic landscape of late 18th-century Rome and Northern Italy, embodying the spirit of Neoclassicism while simultaneously absorbing Romantic naturalism’s burgeoning influence. Born in Lyon, France, Pécheux embarked on an artistic journey marked by rigorous training at the Jesuit College before being propelled towards Paris where he honed his skills under luminaries like Charles-Joseph Natoire, Jean-Baptiste Pillement, and Jean-Antoine Morand – artists who championed a revi…