The modes of expression of men of genius differ as much as their souls, and it is impossible to say that in some among them, drawing and color are better or worse than in others.

An artist worthy of the name should express all the truth of nature, not only the exterior truth, but also, and above all, the inner truth.

I am like a moon that shines on an immense, unknown sea where ships never pass

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

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.

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.

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