1806 – Paris – 1872
French Painter
The Greek Temples of Paestrum
Pierre Girard was a renowned French painter and landscape artist born in Paris in 1806. A student of the distinguished painter Antoine-Jean Gros, Girard developed a strong foundation in classical art techniques, which he later infused with his own distinctive style. Girard began exhibiting his work at the Salon in 1827, where he gained recognition for his skill in capturing natural landscapes and scenes imbued with light and atmosphere.
Girard’s contributions to the art world were not limited to his own paintings; he also played an important role as a teacher. Among his students was Napoleon Orda, who would go on to become a prominent artist and architect. Girard’s influence as a mentor extended his impact on 19th-century art beyond his own works, nurturing the talents of the next generation of artists.
Pierre Girard’s artistic legacy continued through his son, Paul-Albert Girard (1839–1920), who became a notable painter in his own right. Albert Girard began his artistic studies under the tutelage of his father before enrolling at the École des Beaux-Arts in April 1857. There, he studied under notable artists such as Jean-Joseph Bellel, Édouard Picot, and Hippolyte Flandrin. In 1861, Albert Girard won the prestigious Prix de Rome with his historical painting La Marche de Silène, marking a significant milestone in his artistic career.
Albert Girard debuted at the Salon in 1859 with his evocative Roman and Sicilian landscapes. His success led him to a residency at the Villa Medici in Rome from 1862 to 1865, where he continued to hone his craft. In 1875, he received a major official commission to create a large decorative panel for the meeting room of the Council of State, titled Une Vue depuis les Tuileries. Albert Girard also developed a fascination with Orientalism, painting vibrant scenes of Algerian interiors, street life, and festivals, although the exact circumstances of his turn to Orientalism remain unknown.
Pierre Girard’s work is noted for its meticulous composition and deep sensitivity to the natural world, attributes that he passed on to his son and students. His paintings, characterized by their attention to light and atmosphere, continue to be appreciated as exemplary works of 19th-century French landscape art.
Pierre Girard died in Paris in 1872, leaving behind a rich legacy not only through his own art but also through the accomplishments of his son and the impact of his teaching on future artists. His works are preserved in collections such as those of the Musée du Louvre, where they remain a testament to his contributions to the art world.
Paestum, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as the best-preserved Greek archaeological site in Italy. Situated just south of Salerno, near the picturesque Amalfi Coast, and in proximity to Pompeii, Paestum remains somewhat undiscovered by many travelers.
In its prime, Poseidonia thrived, evident in the remnants of city walls, colossal temples, and the overall urban layout. As Magna Grecia expanded and established trade routes, conflicts arose between the Greek colonists and the indigenous Samnite and Lucani tribes. Archaeological findings, however, suggest a period of peaceful coexistence between the Greeks and the Lucanians.
This harmony was disrupted in 273 BC with the arrival of the Romans. The Romans, while altering the city's name to Paestum, did not obliterate it. Remarkably, their admiration for the splendidly constructed temples played a role in shaping classical architecture on the Italian peninsula, influencing subsequent Roman development and style. The Romans made additions to Paestum, including a forum, an amphitheater, a temple of their own, and residential structures, some of which still stand today.
In 79 BC, the eruption of Vesuvius dealt a partial blow to Paestum, altering its landscape. Despite this setback, the city's survival attests to its resilience and enduring cultural significance. Today, visitors can explore the fascinating remnants of Paestum, a testament to the confluence of Greek and Roman influences, and the architectural prowess that has withstood the test of time.
Born on December 13, 1839, in the artistic heart of Paris, Paul-Albert Girard emerged as a luminary in the world of 19th-century French painting. The son of the esteemed painter Pierre Girard, he inherited not just a name but also a passion for the arts that would define his illustrious career.
