Henri-Joseph-François de Triqueti was a 19th-century French sculptor celebrated for his refined, narrative-driven works in marble, bronze, and wood.
Born in Conflans-sur-Loing, France, into a family of wealth and influence, Triqueti initially pursued law before devoting himself to the arts. Under the mentorship of Baron Gros, he honed his sculptural talents, developing a style that balanced classical rigor with intricate storytelling.
Triqueti gained recognition in France for his bronze doors of La Madeleine in Paris, a project that cemented his reputation as a master of bas-relief. However, his most enduring legacy lies in Britain, where he was commissioned by Queen Victoria to design the elaborate Triqueti Marbles for the Albert Memorial Chapel at Windsor Castle. This grand work, a testament to Victorian devotion and craftsmanship, featured biblical scenes rendered in delicate tarsia (inlaid marble), showcasing his signature fusion of technical precision and emotional depth.
He was also a mentor to other artists, including Susan Durant, one of the few female sculptors of her era. Though his name may not be as widely recognized today as some of his contemporaries, his contributions to 19th-century sculpture and religious art remain unparalleled.
