Édouard Manet was a French painter born on January 23, 1832, in Paris. He is often considered a pivotal figure in the transition from Realism to Impressionism. Manet's work challenged traditional artistic conventions, and he is best known for his paintings such as "Olympia" and "Luncheon on the Grass." Manet's style combined elements of classical painting with modern subjects, often depicting scenes of everyday life. His bold brushwork and innovative use of color influenced many artists, including Claude Monet and Vincent van Gogh. Manet passed away on April 30, 1883, leaving a lasting impact on the art world.