A question arises as we stand here on Rue Pierre Laurent Who was this Pierre Laurent?
Rue Pierre Laurent is more than just a street. It is a connection to a man who left his mark on French art. Pierre-François Laurent was born in Marseille in 1739. He became a respected engraver and publisher.
Laurent’s artistic journey began in Avignon. He studied with Jean-Joseph Balechou. Balechou was highly regarded by artists like Joseph Vernet and Denis Diderot. Laurent later moved to Paris. There he studied with Étienne Fessard.
In 1780, King Louis XVI appointed Laurent as an engraver. He worked in the War Department. Between 1771 and 1773, Laurent traveled to Russia. He created engravings of Count Pierre Cheremetiev’s estates.
Laurent’s personal life saw its own changes. He married Thérèse Baral. After her death, he remarried Henriette-Thérèse Ogier. Henriette was a cousin of Paul Barras. Laurent and Henriette had a son named Pierre-Louis-Henri. Laurent was recognized as the “graveur du roi” or engraver of the king.
Laurent first exhibited at the Salon de Paris in 1791. He displayed engravings of paintings from the Louvre. He gained permission to copy artworks from the palace. This project continued even through the French Revolution.
Laurent partnered with Robillard-Péronville. They founded a publishing company. Their goal was to create “Le Musée français”. This collection would feature engravings of artworks from the Louvre and other museums. Laurent provided the initial drawings. The project involved 120 engravers.
Laurent died in 1809. His son Henri continued the “Musée français” project.
Pierre-François Laurent’s legacy lives on. His engravings can be found in prestigious museums. These include the British Museum, the V&A, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. His work provides a glimpse into the art and history of his time.
As you walk along Rue Pierre Laurent, remember the man behind the name. He was a talented artist. He contributed significantly to French art and culture. He captured the spirit of his era through his engravings. This street serves as a reminder of his dedication. It also reminds of his artistic vision.