Eugène Delacroix
April 26, 1798 – August 13, 1863
One of, if not the, most important French Romantic artists in history, Eugène Delacroix shirked the neo-classical perfectionism of his contemporaries and, instead, spent most of his career trying to meticulously express passion and individualism on his canvases. Known early on for his drawing ability, Delacroix explored themes and techniques beyond his stodgy training, while making money illustrating and lithographing books by Shakespeare and other classics. He was introduced to Romanticism while in England and went on to become one of the great masters of the period.
His masterpieces, including The Death of Sardanapalus (1827–28), Christ on the Sea of Galilee (1854) and Liberty Leading the People (1830) today hang in prestigious museums all around the world. Delacroix traveled extensively and found great inspiration later in his life in Northern Africa: a setting he would paint often. He also drew inspiration from music while he worked; most notably from the works of Beethoven and Chopin…the latter of which was a friend and is also buried nearby.
Delacroix worked tirelessly as an artist. He would accept commissions and create murals routinely in addition to his inspired work. In total, he created over 9,000 works. His health suffered due to his schedule. He lived the last years of his life under the care of a housekeeper, which extended his career and life. In the winter of 1862-63, he became sick with a throat infection. Never fully able to shake the ailment, Delacroix died in August of 1963. His unique style and use of wide brush strokes paved the way and directly inspired many of the next generation of French painters…the Impressionists.
Burial
Père Lachaise Cemetery – Paris, FRANCE
Specific Location
Division 49; Prominently visible along Avenue Eugène Delacroix (fitting) at the intersection of Chemin de la Cave.
Celebrity Graveland 
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