French artist Jean Béraud (1849 – 1935) had an exceptional eye for detail, enhanced by the advent of photography. This vision imbued his portrayals of daily Parisian life with subtlety and elegance. Originally a student of law, Béraud transitioned to painting, remaining in his beloved, flamboyant Belle Époque city while his Impressionist contemporaries moved to the country. Béraud would often sequester himself in a taxicab to paint candid images of unsuspecting passersby and mundane, everyday activities. He later painted modernized religious themes, but is most renowned for his insightful images of the glory days of Paris.

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