Born in Bercy Defaux was a pupil of Corot and made his debut at the salon in 1859. He exhibited regularly at the Paris salons until his death and also at salons in Rouen and Le Havre. He won gold, silver and bronze medals and was decorated with the Legion d'Honneur in 1881. He specialised in scenes from Normandy and hens and cockerals. His works can been seen in museums and galleries throughout France.