Édouard Manet: 5 Key Facts About the Controversial Modernist

Édouard Manet (1832–1883) played a pivotal role in the transition from Realism to Impressionism, despite never considering himself an Impressionist. He initially pursued a career in the navy and studied under Thomas Couture in Paris, where he established his studio in 1856. His early pieces showcased contemporary themes in a realist manner. The 1863 painting 'Luncheon on the Grass' was rejected by the Salon and exhibited at the Salon des Refusés, sparking controversy. His 1865 work 'Olympia' stirred outrage for its depiction of a sex worker. In 1865, he traveled to Spain, drawing inspiration from Velázquez and Goya. Although he associated with Impressionists, he declined to exhibit alongside them. His final piece was 'A Bar at the Folies-Bergère' (1882), and a retrospective featuring 179 works was organized after his death.