Pierre, Jean Baptiste Maria

Pierre, Jean Baptiste Maria a French painter, was born at Paris in 1715. It is not known by whom he was instructed; but he went, when quite young, to Rome, where he remained several years. On his return to Paris he distinguished himself as a historical painter; and executed several works for the churches and public edifices, which gained him great reputation. He was appointed painter to the king, and elected member of the academy at Paris. One of his greatest works was the ceiling of the chapel of the Virgin, in the church of St. Sulpice, which has been engraved by Nicholas Dupuis. He also etched a few plates from his own designs and those of others. He died in 1789.