Background
Falconet was born in Paris, the son of the sculptor Etienne Maurice Falconet. His first studies were probably in the French Academy, but his father, who was friendly with Joshua Reynolds, sent his son to England to work under the painter"s direction.
Career
He came to London about 1766, in which year he obtained a premium of twenty guineas for a painting in chiaroscuro. In 1768 he gained another of twenty-six guineas for an historical composition. He continued to paint, and died in 1791.
Membership
He was a member of the Incorporated Society of Artists, and contributed to their exhibitions from 1767 to 1773, and occasionally to the Royal Academy, mostly portraits.