Louise Abbema (1853–1927) was a trailblazing French painter, sculptor, and designer who flourished during the Belle Époque. A prominent figure in the Impressionist and Academic circles, Abbema was a student of masters like Jean-Jacques Henner and Carolus-Duran. She gained immense fame as the favorite portraitist and lifelong companion of the legendary actress Sarah Bernhardt, who served as her most significant patron and muse. Abbema’s work is characterized by its fluid, decorative elegance and a frequent focus on the feminine form intertwined with lush botanicals. Translating her art into a counted cross-stitch design lets you capture the sophisticated glamour of 19th-century Paris. Each stitch recreates her signature soft textures and vibrant floral backdrops, turning a piece of art history into a tactile masterpiece for your home. Stitching an Abbema piece is an exercise in grace, celebrating a woman who defied the conventions of her time to become a celebrated "Official Painter of the Third Republic."