Born in Constantinople, Ottoman Empire, Zakarian received his primary education at a local school. He later moved to Paris to pursue a medical education after completing his studies at Collège Sainte-Barbe's medical institution. Subsequently, he began working in various hospitals.

During the 1870s, Zakarian gained recognition as a skilled painter and a master of still life art. His involvement in international exhibitions led to the award of gold medals in 1889 and 1900, along with the prestigious honor of Chevalier de la Légion d'honneur in 1899. He was often compared to Chardin, yet he was also seen as an artist with his own distinct style.

Zakarian's close friendship with Edgar Degas resulted in a portrait of him by the latter in 1886. Notably, his works can be found in the collections of museums in Paris, Yerevan, Echmiatsin, Venice, and Beirut.

Zakarian passed away on 7 August 1923 in Paris, France, at the age of 74.