Liberté! Ary Scheffer and French Romanticism

A richly illustrated and expertly researched volume, this publication explores the life and legacy of Ary Scheffer (1795–1858), the Dordrecht-born artist who became a central figure in the French Romantic movement. A favorite of literary and political circles in 19th-century Paris, Scheffer was known for his emotionally charged portraits and historical scenes and his close associations with figures such as George Sand, Eugène Delacroix, and the family of King Louis-Philippe.

The catalog places Scheffer’s work in the broader context of French Romanticism, examining how ideals of liberty and individuality shaped the era’s visual culture. In addition to Scheffer’s paintings, the publication features works by his French contemporaries, offering a vibrant panorama of Romantic art in all its expressive power. Contributions from Dutch and French scholars, including experts from the Rijksmuseum, the Louvre, and the Musée de la Vie romantique, bring fresh insight into Scheffer’s art and political relevance. The book also includes an essay by philosopher Maarten Doorman, linking Romanticism to contemporary thought.