Le Baptême de Clovis

after 1837

Stops exhibiting at the Salons

After “St. Cecilia” he stops showing his work altogether: the cool reception of the painting, together with his rejection of Davidian values in French society and government, leads to a self-imposed exile from the state-sponsored Salons.

1837

Receives the commission for “The Hemicycle”

The École’s architect, Félix Duban, entrusts him with a monumental mural for the school’s ceremonial hall, later known as the Hémicycle. Four of his pupils assist him.

1837

Exhibits “St. Cecilia”

His first significant religious painting, made in 1836. The change of subject and the austere manner disappointed French critics.

1838–1843

Works in Italy again

He works in Italy again in 1838–1843; other accounts give two visits, in 1838 and in 1843.