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Charles Gounod (17 June 1818 – 18 October 1893) was a French composer who wrote twelve operas, the most popular of which is Faust (1859). After studying in Paris, his musical career was launched when he won the prestigious Prix de Rome for composition. Studying at the French Institute in Rome made impressions on him both spiritually and musically that stayed with him for the rest of his life. Back in Paris in 1843, he was appointed chapel master of the church of the Missions étrangères before turning to the theatre. His successful musical career was interrupted by the Franco-Prussian War, and in 1870 he moved to London. By the time he returned to Paris a few years later, he remained a respected figure, but was regarded as old-fashioned and further operatic success eluded him. This photograph of Gounod, dating from 1890, was taken by the French portrait photographer Nadar.Photograph credit: Nadar; restored by Adam Cuerden