Louis-François Biloul

LOUIS-FRANÇOIS BILOUL (Paris, 1874 - 1947).
"Reclining nude with black bracelet".
Oil on canvas.
Signed in the lower right corner.
Measurements: 86 x 165 cm; 104x182cm (frame).

Louis-François Biloul offers us a canvas centered on a reclining feminine figure, treated with a firm drawing and a careful modeling of the flesh tones. The molded body, together with the meticulous treatment of jewels and textiles, show an execution with a clearly academic vocation. The decorative display - bedcovers and the slave bracelet worn by the protagonist - constructs a space of idealized exoticism, in a certain way coherent with the codes of European orientalism of the period.
The panoramic and horizontal format stands out, unusual in this type of iconography, which reinforces the scenographic reading of the composition and enhances its decorative presence. The work, moreover, combines with balance the prominence of the figure and the richness of the environment, with a warm palette and well resolved hallmarks.

Louis-François Biloul was a painter specialized in portraits, nudes, still lifes and floral compositions. He trained under the tutelage of Jean-Joseph (or Benjamin) Constant (1845-1902), a leading representative of Orientalism, and the painter and sculptor Jean-Paul Laurens (1839-1921). He exhibited regularly at the Salon des Artistes Français between 1900 and 1938, where he mainly presented portraits and nudes. As a sociétaire and hors-concours, he received important awards: the Médaille de Troisième Classe and the Médaille de Deuxième Classe, the Prix Henner in 1912 and 1925, and the Médaille d'Honneur in 1927. He was also distinguished with the Légion d'Honneur, being named Chevalier in 1926 and promoted to Officier in 1935. He also played an important role in the French art institution as a member of the committee and jury of the Société des Artistes Français.