A French painter born in Charenton-Saint-Maurice, he is considered to be the main representative of romanticism in 19th century French painting. With a solid reputation, he received major orders from the State for canvases and decorations for walls and ceilings of public monuments. In the following years, he produced works inspired by historical or literary anecdotes as well as contemporary events (Freedom Guiding the People) or a trip to the Maghreb (Women of Algiers in their apartments).