The Life and Art of Paul Schaan
Paul Schaan was a French painter and illustrator born in Saint Petersburg, Russia. He received his training at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, studying under several masters including M. Jeannin, Jean-Baptiste Lavastre, Antoine Guillemet, and Édouard Detaille. As a member of the Société des artistes français, he began exhibiting at the Salon de Paris in 1880 and continued to show his work there regularly until 1914.
His diverse body of work includes:
Artistic Subjects and Legacy
Schaan’s repertoire was vast, ranging from architectural studies to genre paintings. He was commissioned by the Ville de Paris to capture various locations, including the Saint Lazare prison and the Tanneurs district. His later works often focused on specific themes, such as cardinals engaged in activities like playing billiards or feasting, which frequently showcased his skill as a portraitist.
His artistic output was composed primarily of oils on canvas or panels, though he also worked with gouache, pastel, and watercolor on paper. He passed away in Paris.
