William-Adolphe Bouguereau (1825-1905): The Sculptor of Ideal Beauty Born in La Rochelle, France, on November 30th, 1825, William-Adolphe Bouguereau’s artistic journey began amidst the tranquil landscapes and artisanal traditions of his hometown. From a young age, he demonstrated an exceptional aptitude for drawing and painting, fueled by a profound fascination with classical art – specifically Raphael and Titian – whose mastery captivated him deeply. This early passion would shape his entire career, propelling him toward Paris and the École des Beaux-Arts, where he honed his skills under th…