Painting Jules-Joseph Lefebvre attr. “Lorelei” ca. 1890

Jules-Joseph Lefebvre (1834-1912) was a French painter and important representative of 19th century academic art. He studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris and was awarded the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1861, which enabled him to study at the Académie de France in Rome. Lefebvre is particularly known for his academic nude studies and portraits, which were characterised by their detailed, almost photorealistic execution and a fine understanding of light and shadow.

An outstanding feature of his works is the depiction of the human body, often in idealised form. Lefebvre was also a respected teacher at the École des Beaux-Arts and influenced an entire generation of artists. His most famous paintings include ‘La Jeune Martyre’ (1855) and ‘Andromède’ (1880), both of which are examples of his virtuoso technique and academic orientation. Lefebvre’s work was recognised both in France and internationally, and he remained a central figure in academic painting until his death.