Alexandre Séon (1855 – 1917): A Poet of Light and Shadow Alexandre Séon (1855, Chazelles-sur-Lyon, Loire – 1917, Paris) stands as a pivotal figure in the Symbolist movement, renowned for his distinctive blend of idealism and meticulous observation—a style that cemented his place among France’s most influential artists of the late nineteenth century. Born into a merchant family with roots deeply embedded in Lyon’s vibrant cultural landscape, Séon’s early life fostered an appreciation for folklore and visual storytelling, shaping his artistic sensibilities from a young age. His formal training…