Edouard Manet

Edouard Manet was a French painter considered a crucial figure in the transition from Realism to Impressionism. Born in Paris in 1832, Manet initially studied under academic painters but soon became dissatisfied with their conventions and pursued his own style, which often portrayed modern life and controversial subject matter. He is known for his use of flat, bright colors and bold brushstrokes, as seen in his famous works like "Olympia" and "Luncheon on the Grass." Despite facing criticism from the art establishment, Manet continued to push the boundaries of traditional painting and became a mentor to younger artists like Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. He died at the age of 51 in 1883, leaving a significant legacy in the development of modern art.