Edouard Manet grew up an aristocrat and became one of the foremost painters of the Impressionist movement. Following the ideals of the poets of his day, he became the ‘peintre de la vie Moderne.’ Manet had a short career as a printer, spanning less than a decade.

Most of his work with the media was very experimental. He treated prints much as he did painting, often achieving the smooth transition from dark to light, which is so characteristic of his paintings rather than strict reproductions. In addition, he illustrated many books, including Poe’s “The Raven.” Manet created some of the most moving social commentary with the print media since Goya, who was a great influence on his work.