Prix de Rome facts for kids

The Prix de Rome was a special scholarship given to talented art students in Paris, France. It was started in 1663 by King Louis XIV. This prize helped young artists study and improve their skills.

What Was the Prix de Rome?

Each year, the prize was given to promising young painters, sculptors, and architects. To win, students had to complete a very difficult art project. This project showed off their skills and creativity.

The winner received money to travel to Rome, Italy. They would study there for a year. Sometimes, if they were doing amazing work, they could stay even longer. Rome was a great place to study art because of its rich history and many famous artworks.

New Subjects Added

Over time, the Prix de Rome grew to include more art forms. In 1803, music students could also compete for the prize. The next year, in 1804, engraving was added as well. Sometimes, students who didn't win first prize could get a "second prize." This allowed them to study in Rome for a shorter time.

Famous Artists and the Prize

Many artists who won the Prix de Rome are not well-known today. However, some very famous artists never won it. These include Eugène Delacroix, Edouard Manet, and Edgar Degas.

The composer Maurice Ravel tried to win the music prize five times but never succeeded. This caused a big discussion at the Paris Conservatoire, a famous music school. After this, the rules for the prize were changed.

The End of the Prize

The Prix de Rome continued to be awarded for many years. It was a very important award for young artists. However, in 1968, the prize was stopped.

Images for kids

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  Palazzo Mancini, Rome, where the winners lived and studied. Etching from 1752.

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  The Villa Medici in Rome as it looks today.

See also

In Spanish: Premio de Roma para niños