Charles Girault came from a modest background and started its carrer as locksmith before entering the Academy of Fine Arts in Paris. Talented, he won the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1880 and went to Italy to continue his training. He was a renowned architect and was commissioned with the construction of the Petit Palais for the Universal Exhibition of 1900. Charles Girault honored the commission with brio, the Petit Palais is thought as a "model museum" elegantly combining classical references, Art Nouveau style and technical innovations such as reinforced concrete.
