Jean-Baptiste Pigalle

French sculptor famous for 'Voltaire'

Jean-Baptiste Pigalle - French sculptor famous for 'Voltaire'
Born

January 26th, 1714
311 years ago

Died

August 20th, 1785
240 years ago — 71 years old

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

France

Links & References

A prominent French sculptor and educator, notable contributions to the art world occurred during the 18th century. Renowned for a significant neoclassical style, approach included both monumental sculptures and smaller works in marble and plaster. Most recognized work, the statue of Voltaire, showcased the elegance of the period. Served as a member of the French Academy of Sculpture, contributing to artistic education and the progression of sculpture in France. Produced several other notable pieces, including 'The Statue of the King' and works for the royal courts. Teaching shaped the careers of many future artists, establishing a legacy in the education of sculpture in France.

Created the statue of Voltaire

Produced 'The Statue of the King'

Served as a member of the French Academy of Sculpture

Other People Born on January 26th

Hans Holzer

Paranormal researcher and author
Born
January 26th, 1920 105 years ago
Died
April 26th, 2009 16 years ago — 89 years old

Austrian-American paranormal researcher and author contributed significantly to the field of paranormal studies. Published over 100 books focusing on ghosts, hauntings, and the supernatural. Recognized for popularizing the concept of ghost hunting in contemporary culture through various media appearances and lectures. Investigated numerous haunted locations, documenting experiences and findings in detail.

Continue Reading

François Coppée

French poet and author of 'Le Pater'
Born
January 26th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1908 117 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1842, this individual became a prominent French poet and author. With a background in literature and a penchant for depicting the struggles of everyday life, this writer gained recognition for both poetry and prose. The literary contributions spanned several genres, with significant works including 'Le Pater', a reflection on the Lord's Prayer, which resonated deeply with audiences. The author's engagement with themes of faith, love, and the human condition established a lasting legacy in French literature.

Continue Reading

Jack Youngblood

American football player, defensive end
Born
January 26th, 1950 75 years ago

A professional football player, this individual played as a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL) for the Los Angeles Rams. Career spanned from 1971 to 1984, during which achieved notable recognition for stellar performances on the field. Was selected to the Pro Bowl multiple times and received First-Team All-Pro honors. This player is remembered for a significant postseason achievement when he participated in Super Bowl XIV despite a broken leg, displaying remarkable determination and skill. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2001 for contributions to the sport.

Continue Reading

Veikko Uusimäki

Finnish actor and theater councilor
Born
January 26th, 1921 104 years ago
Died
May 25th, 2008 17 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Finland, significant contributions to the theater community occurred throughout a lengthy career. Engagement in Finnish cinema included roles in various productions. Served as a theater councilor, influencing the development of local performing arts. Recognized for efforts in promoting cultural activities and supporting emerging talent.

Continue Reading

Col Needham

Businessman, co-founder Internet Movie Database
Born
January 26th, 1967 58 years ago

Co-founded the Internet Movie Database (IMDb) in 1990, a comprehensive online database of film and television content. Served as the CEO of IMDb, contributing to its growth as a primary resource for movie enthusiasts and industry professionals. Played a crucial role in the introduction of user-generated content in the film industry. In 1998, IMDb was acquired by Amazon, further expanding its reach and resources in the entertainment sector.

Continue Reading

Jörg Haider

Austrian politician and Governor of Carinthia
Born
January 26th, 1950 75 years ago
Died
October 11th, 2008 17 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1950 in Austria, a lawyer and politician became prominent as the Governor of Carinthia. A member of the Austrian Freedom Party, served as its leader and transformed the party's image. Held the governorship from 1989 to 1991 and again from 1999 until his death in 2008. Jörg Haider advocated for policies focusing on regional autonomy and immigration, which garnered significant attention and controversy within Austrian and European politics.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on August 20th

Igor Vovkovinskiy

Tallest person in America
Born
1982 43 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2021 4 years ago — 39 years old

Born in Ukraine, an individual immigrated to the United States at a young age. Studied law while also pursuing a career in acting. Gained attention for being the tallest man in America, reaching a height of 7 feet 8.33 inches. Featured in various media and made appearances on television shows, highlighting unique height with a notable appearance on 'The Oprah Winfrey Show'. Advocated for awareness regarding Marfan syndrome, a condition that contributed to extraordinary stature.

Continue Reading

Ulla Jacobsson

Swedish-Austrian actress in 'The Seventh Seal'
Born
May 23rd, 1929 96 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1982 43 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1929, a Swedish-Austrian actress gained prominence in the film industry through notable performances. Featured in the iconic film 'The Seventh Seal' directed by Ingmar Bergman, showcased remarkable talent. Throughout the career, appeared in various European films and television productions, achieving recognition for versatile roles and strong screen presence. Continued to act until the late 1990s, leaving a lasting legacy in European cinema.

Continue Reading

Hugo Pratt

Author and illustrator of Corto Maltese
Born
June 15th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1995 30 years ago — 68 years old

An Italian author and illustrator, contributed significantly to the field of comic art. Created the character Corto Maltese, a sailor and adventurer, whose stories blend fiction and history. Worked extensively in Europe and South America, collaborating with various publishers and artists. Developed a distinct style characterized by a combination of detailed line work and a unique narrative technique. Received numerous awards for contributions to the graphic novel genre.

Continue Reading

Edmund Szoka

American cardinal and Vatican official
Born
September 14th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 86 years old

Ordained a priest in 1955, served in various capacities within the Archdiocese of Detroit. Appointed the sixth bishop of the Diocese of Kalamazoo in 1981, and subsequently became the 11th archbishop of Detroit in 1990. Elevated to cardinal in 1994, played a significant role in various Vatican congregations and councils. Instrumental in church reforms and leadership within the Catholic Church during his tenure. Retired in 2006 and continued service in various capacities until death in 2014.

Continue Reading

Larry Knechtel

Session musician and The Wrecking Crew member
Born
August 4th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2009 16 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent American bass player and pianist, became a leading session musician in the 1960s and 1970s. Contributed to numerous iconic recordings across various genres. Notably played on tracks for The Beach Boys, including the seminal album 'Pet Sounds'. Collaborated with artists such as Elvis Presley and Simon & Garfunkel, contributing to the classic hit 'Bridge Over Troubled Water'. Won a Grammy Award for his work with the band Bread. Knechtel's expertise in both bass and keyboard instruments solidified his reputation in the music industry as a highly sought-after session musician.

Continue Reading

Laurence Hastings

1st Earl of Pembroke
Born
March 20th, 1319 706 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1348 677 years ago — 29 years old

Born in 1319, a prominent noble in medieval England, held the title of 1st Earl of Pembroke. Served as a key military leader during the conflicts surrounding the Scottish wars and the Hundred Years' War. Actively participated in various parliamentary proceedings and was influential in the governance of the realm. His military endeavors included significant engagements that contributed to his recognition as a formidable lord. Passed away in 1348.

Continue Reading