The painter who is content with the praise of the world for what does not satisfy himself, is not an artist, but an artisan; for though his reward be only praise, his pay is that of a mechanic.

Never expect justice from a vain man; if he has the negative magnanimity not to disparage you, it is the most you can expect.

Fame has no necessary conjunction with praise; it may exist without the breath of a word: it is a recognition of excellence which must be felt, but need not be spoken. Even the envious must feel it: feel it, and hate in silence.

Selfishness in art, as in other things, is sensibility kept at home.

Distinction is the consequence, never the object of a great mind.

The only competition worthy of a wise man is with himself.

No man knows himself as an original.