APPRENTICESHIP UNDER CLAUDE GILLOT. 21

M. de Caylus says that Watteau broke with Gillot, and would
never in after life explain the reasons of the rupture. He praised
his work, and acknowledged how much he owed hioi. On the
other hand ; whether Gillot acted from jealousy, and perceived
that his pupil had surpassed him, or not, he abandoned painting,
and devoted all his attention to etching, for which he is cele-
brated in respect of the intelligence and harmony of his composi-
tions. He illustrated in this manner most of the fables of La
Fontaine.
Gersaint says —

"Never were two characters or dispositions more alike, but, as they
had the same faults, never were there two more incompatible. They
could not have lived together long on a good understanding. Never
a fault escaped notice on either side, and they were at last obliged to
separate in a manner disagreeable to them both. Some say that
Gillot's jealousy was the cause, but, however that be, it is certain
that they separated with at least as much satisfaction as they had
previously united. "

All this contemporary gossip on the subject throws light on
the character and position of the two men, and seems to indicate
that their connection was of the character of friendship, and
their separation a matter of regret, at least to "Watteau.
It was in Gillot's studio that Watteau found his pupU Lancret,
who followed him, and whom he advised, says Gersaint, to
" form himself from the study of nature."

Allan Cunningham takes the view that Gillot was a good friend
to his pupil, and describes in a few words their probable relation.
