Édouard Manet was a French modernist painter. He was one of the first artists of the 19th century to paint contemporary life, and he was pivotal in the transition from Realism to Impressionism. His paintings often depict everyday life in the context of a city, such as Paris. In the 1920s, his paintings were viewed as some of the best art ever created in France.

At the age of nine, Manet began painting as a hobby. He enrolled in a special drawing course recommended by his uncle, Antonin Proust. He remained in this program until his death in 1883. At the end of his time at the College Rollin, he became friends with the future Minister of Fine Arts, Paul Cezanne. His works at the time had a more realistic style than his later works.

Despite being a controversial artist, Manet continued to work on his art despite the criticism. Though he suffered from syphilis, he found motivation in nature. He began writing down his daily observations and eventually traveled to the Backcountry. During these brief periods, Manet's paintings sold for astronomical prices. His influence on modernism is immeasurable. His art, including his private life, is now held in museums worldwide.