Edgar Maxence was a French painter active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Maxence is generally classed as a “Symbolist”, an artistic movement in which representational images were used to suggest higher truths that could not be directly depicted. In its literary connections and penchant for elegance, the genre bears some similarities to 19th century Romantic painting and even Art Nouveau.
Maxence studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, where his instructors included Gustave Moreau.
Maxence favored images of women in fancy dress, often holding or surrounded by objects of significance to their role or station. His paintings often have a fascinating blend of defined and suggested areas, and make wonderful use of textural elements and lost edges.
Online resources for Maxence are unfortunately scattered; I’ve gathered what I can for you below.
