Victor Chocquet is an 1875 painting in the Impressionist style by the leading French artist Pierre-Auguste Renoir. This work is located in the Fogg Museum in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Victor Chocquet
Victor Chocquet was a French collector and patron of the arts in the 19th century. Born on October 26, 1821, in the city of Reims, France, Chocquet came from a modest background and worked as a tax inspector. He developed a deep appreciation for art and became an avid collector, particularly drawn to the works of the Impressionist artists.
Chocquet’s passion for art led him to establish close relationships with several prominent artists of the time, including Édouard Manet and Paul Cézanne. He was known for his support and friendship towards struggling artists, providing them with financial aid and encouragement during their early careers.
Chocquet’s collection mainly consisted of works by the Impressionists, and he played a significant role in promoting their art. He acquired numerous paintings by Manet, Cézanne, and others, becoming an important patron of these emerging artists. His collection included notable works such as Manet’s Olympia and Cézanne’s Still Life with Plaster Cupid.
Despite his admiration for the Impressionist movement, Chocquet faced criticism and ridicule for his taste in art. Many critics dismissed the Impressionists’ innovative techniques and unconventional subject matter, which challenged the traditional art establishment of the time. However, Chocquet remained steadfast in his support, acquiring works from artists who would later become recognized as some of the most influential figures in art history.
Unfortunately, Chocquet’s financial situation deteriorated over time, and he was forced to sell parts of his collection. He ultimately passed away on October 17, 1891, in Paris, leaving behind a legacy as a passionate collector and advocate for the Impressionist movement.
Today, Victor Chocquet is remembered for his role in nurturing and supporting the careers of important artists of the 19th century. His collection, though dispersed over the years, played a significant part in the preservation and recognition of the Impressionist art movement. His dedication and belief in the value of these artists’ works contributed to their eventual acceptance and critical acclaim in the art world.