**Jane Marken (1895-1979)** was a veteran French actress, celebrated for her incisive character roles. With a prolific film career, she distinguished herself by portraying ordinary women: courageous mothers, straightforward innkeepers, loyal housekeepers, or eccentric figures.

Her commanding screen presence and unmistakable voice made her a familiar face in French cinema from the 1930s to the 1960s. She collaborated with the leading directors of the era, including Marcel Carné (*Hôtel du Nord*, *Les Enfants du Paradis*), Jean Renoir (*La Règle du jeu*), and Henri-Georges Clouzot (*Quai des Orfèvres*).

Although often in supporting roles, Marken left an indelible mark, lending depth and authenticity to every character. Her ability to portray vivid and recognizable figures secured her a prominent place in the pantheon of French cinema's character actors.