Louis Pasteur by Carolus-Duran at the Jean-Jacques Henner museum

The portrait of Louis Pasteur by Carolus-Duran, produced in 1887, the same year as the Institut Pasteur was founded, will soon be leaving the museum's storage facility to go on display as part of the exhibition "Elles, élèves de Jean-Jacques Henner," set to run at the Jean-Jacques Henner museum from November 28, 2024 to April 28, 2025.

Shortly before Louis Pasteur sat for this portrait, he suffered a second stroke on October 23, 1887. In the biography "The Life of Pasteur" by Pasteur's son-in-law René Vallery-Radot, he refers to the episode: "Ill-health had emaciated his features. A portrait of him by Carolus-Duran represents him looking ill and weary, a sad look in his eyes. But goodness predominates in those worn features, revealing that lovable soul, full of pity for all human sufferings, and of which the painter has rendered the unspeakable thrill."

To thank Carolus-Duran for the portrait sittings and the painting, Louis Pasteur sent him a letter, which is now kept in the Pasteur Museum. He wrote: "You are a great artist, not only in terms of talent but also through your kindness and generosity."

This subtle portrait of the "benefactor of humanity" was restored for the exhibition. Carole Husson, who specializes in canvas and paint layer restoration, cleaned the painting, which had become very grimy. Christine Trescartes worked on the restoration of the ornate frame featuring acanthus leaves and golden motifs.

The Institut Pasteur is delighted to be able to participate in the exhibition with this loan, which is also a great opportunity to showcase the Institut Pasteur's heritage.

Find out more about the exhibition

Illustrations: Le musée Henner vu par Christelle Téa