Episode Details

In this episode of pplpod, we examine the turbulent life of Émile Bin (1825–1897), a 19th-century French painter who balanced a career in decorative arts with a fiery passion for radical politics. We explore how Bin, a student of Nicolas Gosse and admirer of Michelangelo, created stunning mythological paintings and decorated landmarks like the Hôtel du Louvre and the Egyptian Pavilion.

Beyond the canvas, we dive into Bin's life as a staunch Republican who fought on the barricades in 1848 and refused to paint a portrait of Napoleon III on principle. Tune in to hear about his controversial tenure as the Mayor of the 18th Arrondissement, his dismissal over accusations of "Boulangism" regarding General Boulanger, and his legacy as a teacher to famous artists like Paul Signac.