The Impressionists : The origins of modern painting

The art world of the nineteenth century Paris was thrown into turmoil when a group of young painters first exhibited their work. The "Impressionists", as they have came to be known, revolutionized painting, portraying contemporary city life and depicting nature in a completely new way. The Impressionists caused controversy with their revolt against traditional painting methods, their extraordinary new techniques and styles, and their way of life in the cafes of Paris and in the French countryside.

This book presents their stories and the work that made them famous. It describes their personal life and their relationships with each other, and their difficulties with official institutions and the conservative art world of the time. It also analyses their techniques, materials and subjects which ushered in a whole new way of looking at the world. Featuring the life and work of Manet, Monet, Renoir, Degas, Cezanne, Pissaro, Sisley, Morisot, Cassatt, Guillaumin, and Caillebotte.