The Louvre is the book in which we learn to read. We must not, however, be satisfied with retaining the beautiful formulas of our illustrious predecessors. Let us go forth to study beautiful nature, let us try to free our mids from them, let us strive to express ourselves according to our personal temperaments. Time and reflection, moreover, little by little modify our vision, and at last comprehension comes to us.

A thousand painters ought to be killed yearly. Say what you like: I'm every inch a painter.

I allow no one to touch me.

Doubtless there are things in nature which have not yet been seen. If an artist discovers them, he opens the way for his successors.

If isolation tempers the strong, it is the stumbling-block of the uncertain.

When I judge art, I take my painting and put it next to a God made object like a tree or flower. If it clashes, it is not art.

With an apple I will astonish Paris.