The Urchin (Le Gamin) Second and Final State

Édouard Manet (1832-1883) was a French modernist painter and a pivotal figure in the transition from Realism to Impressionism. Born in Paris, Manet's work challenged academic conventions, laying the groundwork for modern art. A prominent member of the Parisian avant-garde, his masterpiece "Déjeuner sur l'herbe" (1863) and "Olympia" (1863) generated controversy, embodying his departure from traditional subject matter and techniques. Manet's use of bold brushstrokes, flat colors, and unconventional compositions marked a departure from academic norms. Often associated with the Impressionist movement, he maintained a unique style that bridged Realism and modern aesthetics. His influence extended beyond his lifetime, impacting artists like Degas and Monet. Manet's legacy remains as a revolutionary force in 19th-century art, challenging established norms and setting the stage for the avant-garde movements that followed.