The academy was founded by the French painter Auguste Joseph Delécluse in the late 19th century, and seems to have been in business starting in either 1884[1] or 1888.

[4] This proved to be particularly popular among English[4] and American[1] women artists.

During its heyday, it was one of the four best-known ateliers in Paris,[4] but its influence and ability to attract good students waned in the early 20th century.

The main professors were Georges Callot, Paul-Louis Delance, and Auguste Joseph Delécluse himself.

[5] Edward Frederick Ertz (from 1892 to 1899)[6][7] was also part of the faculty, teaching watercolor.