Cézanne was born at Aix-en-Provence in the south of France on January 19, 1839. Cézanne developed artistic interests at an early age. His father was a common laborer then became a hatter and, eventually, a successful wealthy banker. He had high expectations for Paul and would never fully accept the notion of his son becoming an artist. Sadly, his father died before realizing the extraordinary accomplishments his son had achieved. He went to school in Aix, forming a close childhood friendship with the future novelist Emile Zola. From 1852 to 1858, young Cezanne studied humanities at the College Bourbon in Aix. Cézanne pursued his education, studying law in Aix from 1859 to 1861; however, his interest and love for the arts would not subside and he continued attending drawing classes. Although Cézanne knew he was going against his father's wishes, he would not be detoured from his dream. Therefore, in 1861, he told his father that he was going to be an artist; furthermore, he was going to join Zola in Paris. His father's never really approved of his decision but eventually agreed to give him financial support. Later, Cézanne received an inheritance which further allowed him to study and work in Paris somewhat comfortably.
             Cézanne remained an outsider to the major artist circle of Paris. From 1864 to 1869, he submitted his work to the official SALON, but the pieces were continually rejected. His works were extremely personal in character, dealing with bizarre subjects of disturbance and fantasy in austere, somber colors and profound intense compositions. The years from 1865 to 1870 are often regarded as Cézanne's early romantic period. He met Camille Pissarro, with whom he painted outside Paris at Auvers, and through her became a part of the impressionist group. Cézanne's life was one
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