Besancenot Jean (1902-1992)

Jean Besancenot is a French artist, born in 1902 and passing in 1992, renowned for his work as a painter, documentary photographer, and self-trained ethnographer. His primary medium encompasses painting and photography, with a significant contribution to the art movement of ethnographic documentation. Besancenot is best known for his illustrated book, *Costumes du Maroc*, which features ethnographic insights and portrait paintings of Moroccans in traditional attire.

Throughout his career, Besancenot travels extensively in Morocco from 1934 to 1945, where he gathers essential observations on traditional dress and lifestyles. His unique style blends artistic expression with ethnographic study, allowing viewers to appreciate the cultural richness of Morocco through his work.

Besancenot's art has been showcased in notable solo exhibitions, including *Types et costumes du Maroc* in 1937 and *Costumes du Maroc* at the Musée des arts africains et océaniens in 1988. He has also participated in group exhibitions, such as *Jewish Life in Morocco* at the Israel Museum in 1986.

His work can be found in prestigious collections, including the Musée du quai Branly, underscoring his significance in the art market. Besancenot's contributions to the understanding of Moroccan culture through art continue to be appreciated by collectors and scholars alike.