Husson, Jules

Husson or Fleury, Jules (zhül üsôN`, flürē`), 1821–89, French novelist who wrote under the name Champfleury (shäNflürē`). Considered a pioneer of French realism, Champfleury was an avid collector of French art and artifacts and conducted extensive research into French history. His literary views are set forth in Réalisme (1857). Among his novels are Les Bourgeois de Molinchart (1854), a portrait of provincial life; and Les Souffrances du Professeur Delteil (1856), a comedy about student pranks. His other works include Histoire de la cariacature (1865–69). In later life he was director of the porcelain factory at Sèvres.