Tony Robert-Fleury

Overview

Tony Robert-Fleury (1837-1911) was a French academic painter and teacher. Son of the celebrated painter Joseph-Nicolas Robert-Fleury (1797-1890), Tony became one of the principal instructors at Academie Julian, where he taught Marie Bashkirtseff.

Historical Background

Career

• Born 1837 in Paris
• Studied under his father and Leon Cogniet
• Debuted at the Salon in 1866
• Known for historical and genre paintings
• Chevalier de la Legion d'Honneur
• Member of the Institut de France
• Major works: "Le Massacre des Polonais" (The Massacre of the Poles), "Le Dr Pinel a la Salpetriere" (Dr Pinel at the Salpetriere), "Le Dernier jour de Corinthe" (The Last Day of Corinth)
• Paintings purchased by the French state

Teaching

• Principal instructor at Academie Julian's women's atelier
• Known for rigorous but gentle teaching style
• Combined technical severity with paternal manner
• Attracted devoted following among female students

Father: Joseph-Nicolas Robert-Fleury

• Member of the Institut de France
• Director of the Ecole de Rome (French Academy in Rome)
• Dean of multiple academic institutions
• One of the most distinguished French painters of his generation

Relationship with Marie

Marie provides a remarkably detailed physical and professional portrait in carnet 083:

• Age: 42 in 1878, looking 35
• Appearance: Pale, dark-haired, bearded, blue eyes, large firm features
• Health: Slightly consumptive (which disgusted Marie)
• Character: Excellent temperament, gentle and slightly mocking manners
• Teaching: Very severe about work but softened severity with "unctuous pleasantries and paternal smiles"
• Marie's reaction: Initially intimidated (blushing when speaking to him), later more comfortable
• Sculpture mentorship: Offered to visit Marie at home to advise on her sculpture work

Marie notes that Breslau "adores him in secret" and that "they all adore him a little." Marie herself is careful to state she has never said whether he is young or old, black or white - maintaining analytical distance despite evident fascination.

Significance in Diary

Robert-Fleury represents legitimate artistic authority and mentorship. His willingness to provide private sculpture lessons shows recognition of Marie's talent. He serves as both teacher and inadvertent object of the female students' admiration.

References in Diary

• Key entries: 1878-10-26 (detailed portrait), throughout carnet 083
• Competition judge for Academie Julian

Related Entries

• #Julian - The academy where he taught
• #Breslau - Student who "adores him in secret"