In 1841, he was hired by the "Commission d'exploration scientifique d'Algérie" and employed as a painter and draftsman's assistant to accompany an expedition.

His experiences and drawings were also turned into a "report", published by the new journal L'Illustration,[2] with text by Alphonse Castaing (1822-1888).

In 1866, he was named a Professor of design at the newly opened "Lycée Impérial de Mont-de-Marsan" (later renamed in honor of Victor Duruy) and remained there until his death.

[2] In addition to his work in Algeria, he painted numerous portraits and created decorations in several churches; most notably those in his hometown, Geloux, Tartas, Maillères and Uchacq-et-Parentis.

Very often, however, attribution of specific details is difficult and some works may have been done in conjunction with his brother Louis-François, a goldsmith and amateur painter.