About the artist
Born in Grenoble in 1836, Fantin-Latour, a well known 19th-century French artist, specialised in still life flower paintings and portraiture. He moved to Paris in 1841 and dabbled in art education at the Ecole des Beaux Arts in 1854. Latour refined his skills at the Louvre and later at Courbet's studio in 1861. Notable figures like Manet and Whistler were among his early acquaintances. His frequent visits to London started in 1859, leading to exhibitions at the Royal Academy from 1862. He also showcased his work at the Salon from 1866. Latour died in 1904, leaving behind a significant body of work, including mythological scenes. His wife, Victoria Fantin-Latour, continued his legacy as a flower painter.