Edouard Manet [?] 1888 - 1892

This mounted albumen print, titled "Edouard Manet [?]," comes to us from the studio of Bouillier. Here we see the French painter, Édouard Manet, who was a pivotal figure in the transition from Realism to Impressionism. This photograph provides a glimpse into the identity of an artist who sought to capture the essence of modern life, often challenging the norms of his time. Manet's focus on contemporary subjects and his loose brushwork were groundbreaking, yet they also stirred controversy. His paintings sometimes elicited strong reactions due to their departure from academic traditions. He once said, "I paint what I see, and not what others like to see." Through this image, we can contemplate the human side of an artist who questioned conventional representation and redefined the boundaries of art.