Henri Chapu (1833-1891), The Italian Peasant Woman

Ink and watercolor on 19th century paper, representing the portrait of an Italian peasant woman with her basket. Beautiful work by the painter Henri Chapu, the work is dated 1859 and located in Rome with a "In good memory" dedication. Note the incorporation of a plant sprig. Monogram "HC", there is a similar work by the artist listed at the Musée d'Orsay. Good general condition, velvet frame. Dimensions: 29 / 16 cm Henri Chapu (1833–1891) was a renowned French sculptor and painter, whose artistic career was distinguished by a particular attention to drawing and watercolor in addition to his sculptural work. Born in Mée-sur-Seine, he joined the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris in 1849, where he took classes from masters James Pradier and Francisque Duret. He gained attention in 1855 when he won the prestigious Prix de Rome for sculpture with a work entitled Cléobis et Biton. This distinction opened the doors to the Villa Medici in Rome, where he further developed his art and his sense of drawing. During his stay in Italy, Chapu developed a greater mastery of forms and proportions, inspired by the study of classical and Renaissance masters. Back in France, Chapu established himself as one of the most prolific and influential sculptors of his time, with public and private commissions, including commemorative monuments. At the same time, he practiced drawing and watercolor with finesse, which he considered fundamental disciplines for designing and refining his sculptures.