Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres

Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres was a French painter born on August 29, 1780, in Montauban, France, and he died on January 14, 1867, in Paris. He was a prominent figure in the Neoclassical movement, known for his precise draftsmanship and his commitment to the ideals of classical art. Ingres studied under Jacques-Louis David and won the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1801, which allowed him to study in Italy, profoundly influencing his artistic development. His works, such as "La Grande Odalisque" and "The Apotheosis of Homer," exemplify his mastery of line and form, contributing significantly to the Neoclassical canon. Throughout his career, Ingres held various influential positions, including director of the French Academy in Rome, and his teachings and works left a lasting impact on both his contemporaries and future generations of artists. Despite facing criticism for his perceived rigidity and adherence to classical ideals, Ingres' legacy endures as a testament to the enduring power of classical beauty and technique.