Ranson was born in Limoges, France. As the son of a successful local politician, he received permission to pursue his artistic dreams and started studying at the Ecoles des Arts Décoratifs in Limoges, but transferred to the more prestigious Académie Julian* in Paris in 1886.

In 1888, at the Académie, he met Paul Sérusier who encouraged him to join his post-impressionist* art group Les Nabis*. From 1890 onwards Ranson hosted meetings for Les Nabis at his home.

Ranson’s work showed a consistent commitment to the decorative arts: like Aristide Maillol he made designs for tapestry, some of which were executed by his wife.

His linear, sinuous style, seen in works such as Woman Standing beside a Balustrade with a Poodle,...