Rosa Bonheur

French, 1822 - 1899

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Rosa Bonheur (1822-1899) was a French painter and sculptor known for her depictions of animals and rural scenes. She was the first woman to be awarded the Cross of the Legion of Honor by the French government. Bonheur was born into an artistic family in Bordeaux, France and began studying art from a young age. She went on to gain international recognition for her naturalistic paintings and sculptures, and for her commitment to social causes such as animal rights and women's rights. Bonheur's works are still widely celebrated and her life continues to be an inspiration to women in the arts.