Léon Richet was born in Solesmes (Sathe), Normandy in 1847. He was a student of Narcisse Virgle Diaz de La Pena (1807/9-1876), Charles Victor Eugéne Lefébvre (1805-1882) and Louis Jean Boulanger (1806/7-1867). Richet began exhibiting in the Paris Salons in 1869, and at the Salon of 1885, he was awarded a honorable mention. He was awarded a second place medal in the Salons of 1888 and 1901. He is best known for his verdant landscapes, especially of the Fontainebleau forest. He traveled extensively, and painted the countrysides of Auvergne and Picardie, as well as seascapes in Tréport. He even traveled to Guéret and Belgium.

His works reflect his preoccupation with nature and the effects of light; his profound influence was strongly felt by his fellow members of the Barbizon school. Richet died in Fontainebleau (Seine-et-Marne) on May 26, 1907.

Our painting, An Orientalist Scene, features a young, beautiful woman with flowing dark hair. Her striking attire consists of a layered white dress and blue robe with a richly detailed brocade of red and gold. Her golden earrings, turban, and feathered fan complete her sumptuous outfit. Seen within a dense wooded area, her peaceful countenance and relaxed stance reflect the naturalness of the setting. The bright colors of her outfit contrast with the dark green landscape, and glitter with a jewel-like brightness.

Museums:

Leeds Museum, Forét de Fountainbleau

Montréal Museum, Vieux Chênes and Forét de Fountainbleau

Musee de Nice, Paysage

Musee de Reims, Paysage avec marais

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston