Henri Manguin (1874-1949) was a prominent French painter associated with the Fauvist movement. Born in Paris on March 23, 1874, Manguin developed an early passion for art and enrolled at the prestigious École des Beaux-Arts in 1894. There, he studied under Gustave Moreau, alongside other future Fauves like Henri Matisse, Albert Marquet, and Charles Camoin.
Manguin's work is characterized by vibrant colors, bold brushwork, and a keen sense of light, reflecting the Fauvist emphasis on painterly qualities and strong hues. His subject matter often included landscapes, still lifes, and intimate scenes of family life, infused with a sense of joy and warmth.
In 1905, Manguin exhibited at the Salon d'Automne alongside the leaders of the Fauvist movement, earning him recognition and critical acclaim. His participation in this seminal exhibition solidified his position within the avant-garde of early 20th-century art.
Throughout his career, Manguin maintained a close friendship with Matisse and frequently traveled to the south of France, where the Mediterranean light profoundly influenced his palette and compositions. He continued to paint and exhibit widely until his death on September 25, 1949, in Saint-Tropez. Today, Manguin's works are celebrated for their lyrical beauty and contribution to modern art.