Adolf Sharleman
- Early Life and Education
- Early Success at the Academy
- European Travels
- Later Career and Recognition
- Influence and Legacy
Early Life and Education
Adolph Iosifovich Charlemagne(1826 - 1901) was a renowned Russian painter known for his battle, historical, and genre scenes. He was born on February 25, 1826, in Saint Petersburg, Russia, to a family with a distinguished artistic lineage. His grandfather, Jean-Baptiste Bode-Charlemagne, was a sculptor-decorator who had migrated to Russia from Rouen during the reign of Catherine the Great.
Charlemagne's father, Joseph Charlemagne, was an architect who had trained at the Imperial Academy of Arts. The young Adolph received his general education at the St. Peter's Lutheran School in Saint Petersburg. In 1848, he enrolled in the Imperial Academy of Arts, initially studying historical painting under Fyodor Bruni and later shifting to battle painting under Boris Willewalde.
Early Success at the Academy
During his time at the Academy, Charlemagne demonstrated exceptional talent. In 1852, he was awarded a small silver medal for his sketch "Cuirassiers in Krasnoye Selo." The following year, he received a large silver medal for his painting "An Episode from the Battle of Austerlitz." In 1854, he earned a small gold medal for his interpretation of the competitive program "An Episode from the Hungarian Campaign of 1848." Finally, in 1855, he was awarded a large gold medal for his painting "Suvorov on the St. Gotthard Pass," which is now housed in the Gatchina Palace.
European Travels
With the prestigious gold medal came the opportunity to travel abroad as a pensioner of the Academy. In the same year, Charlemagne set off for Munich, where he sought guidance from Alexander Kotzebue and produced several notable works, including "The Triumphal Reception of Suvorov in Milan" and "Suvorov's Last Night in Switzerland." The latter painting earned him the title of Academician in 1859.
Charlemagne continued his travels to Paris, where he studied the Rococo style popularized by Madame de Pompadour. He also visited Stuttgart and other German cities before returning to Saint Petersburg in 1861.
Later Career and Recognition
Upon his return to Russia, Charlemagne's first commissions included sacred paintings for Catholic churches and decorative works for private residences. In 1867, he painted one of his most celebrated works, "Catherine II in Falconet's Workshop," which garnered him the title of Professor and was acquired by Empress Maria Alexandrovna.
From then on, Charlemagne's reputation grew rapidly. His compositions became highly sought after by publishers of illustrated journals. In 1871, he was appointed as artist to the Department of State Papers and invited to serve as a consultant for the drawing workshops of the Intendant General's Office. In 1873, he was bestowed the title of Artist to His Imperial Majesty.
Influence and Legacy
Charlemagne's oil paintings, watercolors, and drawings showcased his masterful execution and keen sense of style. His works covered a wide range of subjects, from historical events to everyday scenes. He passed away on May 6, 1901, leaving behind a substantial artistic legacy.
