To the artist there is never anything ugly in nature

If the artist only reproduces superficial features as photography does, if he copies the lineaments of a face exactly, without reference to character, he deserves no admiration. The resemblance which he ought to obtain is that of the soul.

The more simple we are, the more complete we become.

Where shall we begin? There is no beginning. Start where you arrive. Stop before what entices you. And work! You will enter little by little into the entirety. Method will be born in proportion to your interest.

One must work, nothing but work, and one must have patience.

There is nothing ugly in art except that which is without character, that is to say, that which offers no outer or inner truth.

The delicate droop of the petals standing out in relief, is like the eyelid of a child.