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Louise AbbemaFrench artist, sculptor and designer of the Belle Epoque, openly lesbian.
Date of Birth: 30.10.1853
Country:  France |
Content:
- Biography of Louise Abbéma
- Portrait of Sarah Bernhardt
- Paris Salon and World Exhibitions
- Official Artist of the Third Republic
- Artistic Style and Influences
Biography of Louise Abbéma
Louise Abbéma was a French artist, sculptor, and designer of the Belle Époque era. She was known for her open homosexuality, which was uncommon during her time. Abbéma began painting as a teenager and studied under renowned masters of the time, including Charles Joshua Chaplin, Jean-Jacques Henner, and Carolus-Duran.
Portrait of Sarah Bernhardt
Abbéma gained recognition as a young artist for her portrait of Sarah Bernhardt, her friend and rumored lover. She painted numerous portraits of famous individuals and also worked on the decoration of the Paris City Hall, the Paris Opera House, and other theaters, including the "Théâtre Sarah Bernhardt" and the Governor's Palace in Dakar.
Paris Salon and World Exhibitions
Abbéma was a regular participant in the Paris Salon, winning the Salon Prize in 1881. Her works were also exhibited at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, where she was one of the few women artists showcased. She received a bronze medal at the 1900 Paris World Exhibition.
Official Artist of the Third Republic
Abbéma was considered the "Official Artist of the Third Republic" and her articles were regularly published in the journals Gazette des Beaux-Arts and L'Art. She was awarded the Chevalier of the Legion of Honor in 1906 for her contributions to the arts.
Artistic Style and Influences
Abbéma worked with oil and watercolor, and her works were influenced by Japanese and Chinese artists, as well as impressionists, particularly Édouard Manet. Some of her notable paintings include "The Game of Croquet" (1872), "Portrait of Sarah Bernhardt" (1875), "Portrait of Jeanne Samary" (1879), "April Morning, Place de la Concorde, Paris" (1894), "At the Piano" (circa 1880), "Lady with Flowers" (1883), "Self-Portrait" (circa 1900), and "Flora" (1913).
