Art is contemplation. It is the pleasure of the mind which searches into nature and which there divines the spirit of which nature herself is animated.

Mystery is like a kind of atmosphere which bathes the greatest works of the masters.

There is no need to create. Genius comes only to those who know how to use their eyes and their intelligence.

There should be no argument in regard to morality in art. There is no morality in nature.

Nothing is a waste of time if you use the experience wisely.

Mere exactitude, of which photography and moulage [life casting] are the lowest forms, does not inspire feelings.

Man enjoys living on the edge of his dreams and neglects the real things of the world which are so beautiful. The ignorant and indifferent destroy beautiful things merely by looking at the marble. Things that remake the soul of him who understands them.