Ferdinand-Victor-Eugène Delacroix
Ferdinand-Victor-Eugène Delacroix was a French painter born on April 26, 1798, in Charenton-Saint-Maurice, France, and he died on August 13, 1863, in Paris. Delacroix is widely regarded as a leading figure of the Romantic movement in art, known for his expressive brushwork and vibrant use of color. His works often depicted dramatic and exotic subjects, drawing inspiration from literature, history, and his travels, notably to North Africa in 1832, which profoundly influenced his palette and thematic choices. Among his most celebrated works is "Liberty Leading the People" (1830), which has become an enduring symbol of revolutionary fervor. Delacroix's impact on the art world was significant, as he inspired subsequent generations of artists, including the Impressionists, with his innovative approach to color and composition. His career was marked by both critical acclaim and controversy, reflecting the dynamic cultural shifts of 19th-century France.