Claude Monet was a French painter and a key figure in the Impressionist movement, which emerged in the late 19th century. Born on November 14, 1840, in Paris, he is best known for his innovative use of light and color, capturing the essence of a moment rather than focusing on fine details. His famous works include Water Lilies, Impression, Sunrise, and Woman with a Parasol. Monet's style emphasized the effects of natural light and atmosphere, often painting the same scene multiple times to explore different times of day and seasons. He spent much of his later life in Giverny, where he created a beautiful garden that inspired many of his masterpieces. Monet passed away on December 5, 1926, leaving a lasting legacy in the art world.