In the second half of the 19th century, Edouard Manet (1832-1883) showed great originality in his painting of historic scenes and portraiture of well-known figures, such as the novelist Zola and the poet Mallarmé. Even if we cannot call him the first Impressionist, his leading role in the history of modern art must be emphasised. The scandals in 1863 caused by “The Luncheon on the Grass” or “Olympia” both exposed at the Orsay Museum effectively mark the beginning of modern painting. Enjoy your visit!