Scene from the Martyrdom of St. Andrew LACMA M.2000.179.19

Jean-Baptiste Deshays was a French painter who was born in Rouen in 1729. He studied under François Boucher, one of the most important artists of the Rococo period. Deshays was known for his historical and mythological paintings, influenced by the work of Nicolas Poussin and Jean-Baptiste Greuze. In 1752, Deshays won the prestigious Prix de Rome, which enabled him to study in Italy for four years. While there, he was inspired by the works of Raphael and Michelangelo, which greatly influenced his style. On his return to France, Deshays became a member of the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture. One of Deshays' most famous works is his painting The Death of Socrates, which depicts the philosopher drinking hemlock while surrounded by his disciples. The painting is notable for its dramatic lighting and the emotional expressions on the faces of the figures. Deshays died in 1765 at the age of 36, leaving behind a relatively small body of work. However, his influence on French painting during the Rococo period cannot be underestimated.