Théodore Duret facts for kids
Théodore Duret (born January 20, 1838, in Saintes; died January 16, 1927, in Paris) was a French journalist, writer, and art critic. He was one of the first people to support famous artists like Courbet, Manet, and the Impressionists. One of his well-known books is Critique d'Avant Garde (Paris, 1885), which he wrote to support the Impressionist art movement. He also helped an American art collector named Louisine Havemeyer choose and buy artworks.
About Théodore Duret
Théodore Duret inherited a business that sold Cognac, a type of brandy. Besides his business, he was also a collector of art, an expert on Asian cultures (an orientalist), and an art critic.
His Journeys to Asia
In September 1871, Duret traveled across Asia with another collector, Henri Cernuschi. They visited many countries, including Japan, China, Mongolia, Java, and Indonesia. Their goal was to collect art objects and artworks. Duret was especially interested in buying Japanese prints and illustrations. He wanted to find what he called "the real Japan" through these objects.
When he returned to Paris, Duret published his book Voyage en Asie in 1873. This book described his travels and the art he bought in Asia. While Duret shared his personal journey in Voyage en Asie, he also wrote about the family life, languages, and religious practices of the countries he visited.
His Portrait by Whistler
Théodore Duret met the artist Whistler through Manet. In 1883, Duret posed for a portrait by Whistler at Whistler's studio in London. Duret asked Whistler to paint him in full evening clothes. However, Whistler suggested that Duret hold a pink domino mask. This mask was added to make the painting's design look better.
Whistler worked on the portrait for a long time, even though the final painting looks like a quick sketch. When the painting was shown at the Paris Salon in 1885, it was highly praised. Many people thought it was the best portrait of Duret painted by any of the great Realist artists of that time.
His Writings
- Duret, Théodore (1919) Vincent Van Gogh. Bernheim Jeune et Cie.
See also
In Spanish: Théodore Duret para niños
