Engraved in stone, the Philippe Burnot Plaque marks a life dedicated to art. It stands here on Rue Sully. This plaque commemorates Philippe Burnot. He was the founder of the “Bois Gravé Lyonnais.”
Philippe Burnot was born in 1877. His birthplace was the Château de Thulon. It was in Lantignié in the Beaujolais region. He died in Lyon on August 14, 1956.
Burnot’s journey into art began with silk and lace. He worked as a designer. In 1919, a meeting changed his path. He met Parisian illustrator George Bruyer. This encounter led him to wood engraving. It is also known as xylogravure.
By 1926, Burnot mastered copper engraving. He worked with both etching and burins. His skill grew. In 1929, he created the Association du Bois Gravé Lyonnais. This organization was significant. It held annual exhibitions. These showcased French and European engravers for 12 years.
Burnot’s style evolved. He drew influence from Kandinsky and Klee. By 1948, he shifted away from representation. He moved towards abstraction. His techniques included monotype and découpage.
The Philippe Burnot Plaque reminds us of his extensive body of work. He created 90 illustrated books. He also made 75 ex-libris. His portfolio includes 205 wood panels. Plus, there are 144 copper plates. He produced 4 lithographs. Not to mention 191 monotypes. And he designed 61 collages.
Burnot’s efforts revitalized wood engraving. This occurred when photography was replacing it in printing. Traditional wood engraving gave way to laser engraving. However, Philippe Burnot sparked a revival. Today, passionate artists still practice it.
Some of Philippe Burnot’s engravings are on display. You can view them at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon.
Here at 29 Rue Sully, the Philippe Burnot Plaque marks his former home. It serves as a reminder of his contribution. He lived in this house. The plaque marks the years of his life from 1877 to 1956.
Consider Philippe Burnot’s impact. He revived a dying art. He fostered a community of engravers. The Philippe Burnot Plaque is a tribute to his legacy. It celebrates his artistic achievements in Lyon.