Antoine-Jean Gros

Gros is known for bringing a form of muscular history-painting style to contemporary subject-matter, and influenced both Géricault and Delacroix. He frequented Vigée-Le Brun’s studio, and was David’s pupil, assistant and disciple, taking over his studio (and his many students) when David exiled himself to Brussels. Couture (who taught Manet) and Bonington were among his own students. Géricault was a younger colleague of Gros, while the young Delacroix met Gros by chance, who asked if he could help him; Delacroix then spent hours alone with Gros’ earlier work in his studio, and in conversation with his idol.