Pierre Carrier-Belleuse Print, The Letter (1890)

Artist Biography:

Pierre Carrier-Belleuse (1851-1932) was a prominent French painter and sculptor whose work captured the elegance of Belle Époque Paris. Son of celebrated sculptor Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse, he trained at the École des Beaux-Arts and exhibited regularly at the prestigious Paris Salon, earning acclaim for his masterful depictions of dancers and society figures.

Belle Époque Era:

During the Belle Époque (1871-1914), Paris flourished as a cultural center of art, music, and dance. This “Beautiful Era” was characterized by peace, technological innovation, and artistic achievement. Carrier-Belleuse’s work embodies the period’s optimism and grace, documenting the sophisticated entertainment and social life of the French capital.

Pierre Carrier-Belleuse Style and Technique:

Carrier-Belleuse developed a distinctive style combining academic precision with luminous atmosphere. His mastery of pastels allowed him to capture the play of light on silk, tulle, and skin with extraordinary sensitivity. Using bold compositions and dynamic perspectives, he brought unprecedented intimacy to his subjects, particularly in his backstage scenes.

Paintings of Paris Opera Dancers:

His renowned series of ballet dancers showcases both the public and private moments of Paris Opera performers. These works reveal the behind-the-scenes world of the ballet, from rehearsals to performances, capturing dancers adjusting their costumes, practicing at the barre, and performing on stage. His unique access to the Opera allowed him to create authentic, intimate portraits of dancers in their natural environment.

Each print is a window into the glamorous world of Belle Époque Paris, perfect for collectors of French art and enthusiasts of dance history. These museum-quality reproductions preserve the delicate details and atmospheric qualities that made Carrier-Belleuse one of the era’s most sought-after artists.