Un portrait de Gérôme pour Washington
The National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., has acquired a portrait of the French painter Jean-Léon Gérôme, painted by his friend and fellow artist Édouard Delessert. Delessert, a multifaceted figure who was also a writer, photographer, and traveler, was mentored in literature by Prosper Mérimée and contributed to the Revue de Paris before founding the journal L'Athenaeum français. The acquisition adds a significant work to the museum's collection, highlighting the interconnected circles of 19th-century French art and letters.
This acquisition matters because it enriches the National Gallery of Art's holdings with a work that not only depicts a major academic painter but also documents the network of artists, writers, and intellectuals who shaped French cultural life in the mid-1800s. The portrait of Gérôme by Delessert offers insight into the personal relationships and collaborative spirit of the era, making it a valuable addition for both art historical research and public exhibition.