Jean Gaston Mantel Français, 1914-1995

French painter, illustrator, and teacher based in Morocco

Jean‑Gaston Mantel was born in Amiens in 1914 and trained at the École des Beaux‑Arts in Paris. He discovered Morocco in the 1930s and settled there permanently, first in Rabat and later in Meknès. He taught at the Lycée Gouraud and became a central figure in the local art scene while developing a prolific body of personal work.

He drew inspiration from Moroccan daily life—narrow streets, markets, fantasia horsemen, musicians, and women in traditional dress. His style blended realism with creative freedom, characterized by bold compositions and a strong sense of color and light.

Mantel also designed travel posters and large murals for hotels, public buildings, and exhibitions. After Moroccan independence, he continued teaching at the Lycée Descartes and painted scenes from Salé and southern France.

He died in Marseille in 1995, leaving behind a vibrant body of work deeply rooted in his connection to Morocco, combining documentary observation with artistic expression.