A Gèdres (Basses Pyrénnées)

Henri Stanislas Rouart, a multifaceted French figure, was born on October 2, 1833, in Paris, and passed away on January 2, 1912, in the same city. His life was marked by significant contributions across engineering, military service, and the arts. Rouart's early education at the prestigious Lycée Louis-le-Grand in Paris forged a lifelong friendship with Edgar Degas, who immortalized him in the painting 'Portrait of a Polytechnicien.' Rouart's innovative mind led to the development of the pneumatic post system in Paris, a testament to his engineering prowess. His military career saw him serve as an artillery captain during the Franco-Prussian War, where he commanded a battery during the Siege of Paris, further cementing his bond with Degas. In his later years, Rouart turned his focus to painting, studying under the tutelage of Camille Corot and Jean-François Millet. His artistic style resonated with the Impressionists, leading to his participation in seven of the eight Impressionist exhibitions, starting with the inaugural 1874 exhibition at Nadar's studio. Beyond his own artistic endeavors, Rouart became a celebrated collector and patron of the arts, amassing works by luminaries such as Delacroix, Courbet, and Degas. His financial support was instrumental in organizing three Impressionist exhibitions. Rouart also served as the mayor of La Queue-en-Brie from 1891 until his death. His legacy continued posthumously with the sale of his extensive art collection, which significantly impacted the art market. Rouart was laid to rest in Paris's Père-Lachaise Cemetery, leaving behind a rich legacy that bridged the worlds of art, science, and public service.