Preparatory sketches for a series of historical paintings by French artist Jean Alaux, depicting fourteen significant episodes in French history, are currently being offered for sale. The works, created in preparation for a large-scale decorative project, offer a glimpse into the artist’s process and the ambitious scope of the commission.
Jean Alaux, known as “le Romain,” was born in Bordeaux on January 15, 1786, and died in Paris on March 2, 1864. He was a prominent figure in the French artistic landscape of the 19th century, receiving early training at the École des Beaux-Arts in Bordeaux under Pierre Lacour, before continuing his studies in Paris with François-André Vincent. He won the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1815 for his painting “Briséis pleurant le corps de Patrocle dans la tente d’Achille,” which secured him a period of study at the Villa Médicis in Rome from 1817 to 1821.
During his time in Rome, Alaux befriended Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres, and together they produced numerous drawings of Roman life and landscapes. Upon his return to Paris, Alaux embarked on a successful career, securing commissions from the state and establishing himself as a sought-after portraitist. He became particularly favored during the reign of Louis-Philippe, who commissioned him to decorate the ceiling of the Conseil d’État at the Louvre and to undertake the extensive decoration of the Salle des États Généraux and the Salle des Batailles at the Palace of Versailles.
The preparatory sketches now available for sale relate to a project commissioned to Alaux to illustrate key moments in French history. These sketches demonstrate Alaux’s meticulous approach to composition and his attention to detail. The artist’s function during this period reflects a blend of Neoclassical and Romantic styles, characterized by dramatic compositions and a focus on historical narrative.
Alaux served as the director of the Académie de France in Rome from 1847 to 1852, a testament to his standing within the French art world. His family similarly had strong artistic ties. he was the brother of painters Jean-Pierre Alaux and Jean-Paul Alaux, and the father of artist Fanny Alaux.
The offered sketches provide insight into Alaux’s working methods, revealing his initial ideas and compositional studies before embarking on the final paintings. They represent a significant opportunity for collectors to acquire a rare glimpse into the creation of a major historical cycle. The sketches are currently being offered at auction, with an estimated value of 4,000 to 6,000 EUR.
