_Gustave Courbet_ (French: 1819-1877).
Courbet is famous in the history of modern French painting as
the first of the "realists"; he is the Caravaggio of France,
full of force and vigour, but often somewhat coarse and brutal.
His landscapes and seapieces will probably be esteemed more
highly by posterity than his realistic works. He was, says Dr.
Muther, "the first French painter of sea-pieces, who had a
feeling for the sombre majesty of the sea. His very quietude
is expressive of majesty; his peace is imposing, his smile
grave; and his caress is not without a menace." Courbet was
a revolutionary in politics, as in art. In September 1870 he
was appointed Director of the Fine Arts by the Provisional
Government, and he afterwards joined the Commune. He was
instrumental in saving many works of art, but he ordered the
destruction of the Column in the Place Vendôme. For this he was
brought before a court-martial and sentenced to six months'
imprisonment. Afterwards, in a civil action, he was cast in
heavy damages; his furniture and pictures were sold; and he
retired to Switzerland. He died at La Tour, Vevay, a ruined
man.