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In March 1877 Vincenzo Gemito left for Paris, where the famous meeting with the artist Meissonier took place. The sculptor found not only moral support in Meissonnier.
In fact, the latter welcomed him into his studio on rue Malesherbese, immediately taking him under his protection.
Although the realist sculpture and the popular subjects treated by the artist were far from what was the taste and trends of the moment, Gemito was greatly appreciated by the French public and the Parisian period was among the happiest of his artistic career.