Who is Chambouvard from The Masterpiece and what is their importance?

Chambouvard is a well-known sculptor. He represents the snobbery of the art community in Paris. Held in high esteem by the Beaux-Arts and the general public, he firmly believes that every piece he turns out is a masterpiece. Chambouvard looks down on other artists, especially the younger artists like Claude and Mahoudeau, who are coming along with radical ideas.