The first big prize of Angoulême as been handed out: veteran French cartoonist Emmanuel Guibert has won the Grand Prix, a kind of lifetime achievement award for cartoonists and one of the most prestigious in the cartooning world.

Guibert beat out Chris Ware and Catherine Meurisse, who were the other two finalists. It was Guibert’s third time as a finalist.

Born in 1964, Guibert is known in the US for two Alan’s War books and The Photographer, all published by First Second in the US, and all showing a humane approach and understated yet frequently devastating drawing style. He’s also known for co-writing the immensely popular kids’ series, Ariol.

The news was reported immediately in Le Monde, France’s top newspaper (try to imagine breaking comics award news in the NY Times).

Robert Kirkman was also presented with a special “Fauve d’honneur” award at the opening ceremonies for this year’s festival.