Brief Biography-Alfred Stevens from Brussels studied at the Académie Royale des Beaux-Arts in Brussels in 1837, where François-Joseph Navez tutored him. He entered the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris in 1843 and quickly became associated with many of the leading artists of the time. A vast number of French and Dutch artists influenced him. In 1863, he was named Chevalier of the Legion of Honour. He was renowned for doing paintings of elegant women and enjoyed a successful career living a life of relative luxury. In his later years, his health failed, and he endured financial difficulties. He spent considerable time by the sea for health reasons while painting and teaching for income. By the end of his life, he lived in meagre circumstances in Paris.