Edouard Manet

Early Life

Édouard Manet was born on January 23, 1832, in Paris, France. He was the eldest son of Auguste Manet, a high-ranking judge, and Eugénie-Desirée Fournier, the daughter of a diplomat and goddaughter of the Swedish crown prince, Charles XIV.

Education and Training

Manet initially pursued a career in the navy but failed the examination to the naval academy. This led him to pursue his interest in art. He studied under the academic painter Thomas Couture from 1850 to 1856. During this period, he also made several trips to the Louvre, where he copied the works of the old masters.

Artistic Style and Influence

Manet's work bridged the gap between Realism and Impressionism. He was inspired by the works of Goya and Velázquez, and he often used contemporary subjects in his paintings. Manet's innovative use of light and shadow, as well as his choice of subject matter, had a significant influence on the Impressionist movement.

Major Works

Manet's most famous works include "Olympia" (1863) and "The Luncheon on the Grass" (1863). Both paintings caused a scandal due to their provocative subject matter and departure from traditional painting techniques. Other notable works include "A Bar at the Folies-Bergère" (1882) and "The Railway" (1873).

Later Life and Death

In his later years, Manet's health deteriorated due to complications from syphilis, a disease he had contracted in his youth. He died on April 30, 1883, in Paris, leaving a significant body of work that continues to be celebrated for its influence on modern art.

Legacy

Manet's work continues to be studied and admired for its innovative approach to painting. His influence can be seen in the works of many subsequent artists, including those of the Impressionist movement. Manet is often credited with helping to pave the way for modern art.