Flowers in a Crystal Vase (c. 1882) by Édouard Manet

Édouard Manet (1832–1883), French, Édouard Manet, a pivotal figure in the transition from realism to impressionism, was born on January 23, 1832, in Paris, where he also passed away on April 30, 1883. Despite his initial aspirations towards a career in law or the navy, Manet's passion for art led him to the studio of Thomas Couture in 1850, marking the beginning of his formal training as a painter. By 1860, he had begun to exhibit his work, including the notable 'Portrait of M. and Mme Auguste Manet.' Manet's art, characterized by its bold realism and departure from academic conventions, often stirred controversy, as seen with works like 'Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe' and 'Olympia,' which challenged societal norms and artistic traditions.
Manet's oeuvre reflects a diverse range of subjects, from intimate portraits and vibrant scenes of Parisian life to dramatic historical narratives and serene marines. His friendship with literary and artistic luminaries such as Charles Baudelaire, Émile Zola, and Edgar Degas placed him at the heart of Paris's cultural avant-garde. Despite the initial rejection of his work by the official art establishment, Manet's influence on modern painting is undeniable. His innovative approach to composition and subject matter paved the way for future movements, securing his legacy as a cornerstone of 19th-century art.