When and where was François Gérard born?
François Pascal Simon Gérard entered the world on the 4th of May 1770 in Rome. His father held a post within the house of the French ambassador there while his mother was Italian by birth.
Questions about François Gérard
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who were the teachers of François Gérard during his early training?
François Gérard studied briefly under sculptor Augustin Pajou before switching to Nicolas-Guy Brenet. He left Brenet almost immediately to join Jacques-Louis David's studio after gaining admission into the Pension du Roi at age twelve.
Why did François Gérard abandon formal studies in 1793?
The year 1793 brought financial ruin when his father passed away and extreme poverty forced young François to abandon formal studies for immediate paid work. He utilized assistance from David on Louis-Michel Le Pelletier de Saint-Fargeau during this period.
What title did Napoleon give to François Gérard in 1809?
Napoleon named him Baron Gérard in 1809 to elevate his social standing alongside his artistic success. This title recognized his status as the painter of kings who painted leading figures of the Empire and Bourbon Restoration.
When did François Gérard die and what caused his death?
On the 11th of January 1837 he died after three days of fever following the revolution of 1830 which added to his disquiet and sorrow. His students included Heinrich Christoph Kolbe and a biography by his nephew Henri Gérard preserves much correspondence and notes.