Edouard Manet (23 January 1832 – 30 April 1883) was a painter who’s considered to have played a pivotal role in the foundation of impressionist style while transitioning from the previously acclaimed realist style. He was a French native, born in Paris. Manet developed penchant for painting while very young. Although his parents weren't for the idea of him being a painter, they gave in to his fascination, eventually taking him to an art school. This only happened after they took him to different courses, but he failed due to lack of interest. Manet’s earliest artwork was done in realism style. In 1872, he received arts training from Dutch painter Frans Hals while living in Holland. After the training, he began painting more with more visible brushstrokes. This provided the foundation for him to become one of the few artists to introduce impressionist style and work towards its development. His 1863 art "Luncheon on the Grass" that showed a nude woman and two men became center of controversy, especially coming at a time when such pieces were considered indecent. The piece was even rejected by Salon, which was a prestigious annual exhibition. Nevertheless, it wasn’t his work alone that was rejected, but over 4,000 artwork pieces from different artists were also rejected. It’s for that reason that Napoleon II established Salon des Refuges, for the display of works of artists that had been rejected. When Manet’s rejected piece was displayed at the Salon des Refuges, it received quite attention.
Manet’s influence on young artists of his time saw the strengthening of the impressionist style that eventually gave rise to modern art. He remained supportive of the impressionist movement, including sharing ideas with young artists. Manet was awarded the prestigious Legion d'honneur by the French government in 1881. Many collections and galleries have Edouard Manet framed art, originals and reproduced art pieces.