He was one of the first 19th-century artists to paint modern life, as well as a pivotal figure in the transition from Realism to Impressionism. Born into an upper-class household with strong political connections, Manet rejected the naval career originally envisioned for him; he became engrossed in the world of painting. These works, along with others, are considered watershed paintings that mark the start of modern art. The last 20 years of Manet's life saw him form bonds with other great artists of the time; he developed his own simple and direct style that would be heralded as innovative and serve as a major influence for future painters.
At his father's suggestion, in he sailed on a training vessel to Rio de Janeiro. After he twice failed the examination to join the Navy , [ 8 ] his father relented to his wishes to pursue an art education. From to , Manet studied under the academic painter Thomas Couture. In , Manet opened a studio. His style in this period was characterized by loose brush strokes, simplification of details, and the suppression of transitional tones.
After his early career, he rarely painted religious, mythological, or historical subjects; religious paintings from include his Jesus Mocked by the Soldiers [ 12 ] and The Dead Christ with Angels. Manet had two canvases accepted at the Salon in A portrait of his mother and father Portrait of Monsieur and Madame Manet , the latter of whom at the time was paralysed by a stroke or advanced syphilis, was ill-received by critics. In , Manet exhibited Music in the Tuileries probably painted in , [ 5 ] [ 17 ] one of his first masterpieces.
With its portrayal of a crowd of subjects at the Jardin des Tuileries , the painting shows the outdoor leisure of contemporary Paris, which would be a lifelong subject of Manet's.
Music in the Tuileries received substantial critical and public attention, most of it negative. Angered by the subject matter and technique, several visitors even threatened to destroy the painting. It gave rejected artists the opportunity to display their paintings if they chose. The painting's juxtaposition of fully dressed men and a nude woman was controversial, as was its abbreviated, sketch-like handling, an innovation that distinguished Manet from Courbet.
