An intimate exploration of an artistic friendship at the heart of the Impressionist movement.

Édouard Manet (1832–1883) was a pioneer of modern painting, while Berthe Morisot (1841–1895) was the only woman founding member of the Impressionist group. They were colleagues, friends, and, after Morisot married Manet's brother, family. Their relationship, spanning a period of fifteen years, was undoubtedly the closest between any two members of the Impressionist circle. Through collaboration, rivalry, and mutual collection, each influenced the other's work and thus helped shape the advent of modern art.

The story of this relationship has mainly been told through the wonderful portraits of Morisot by Manet, but the connection between the two artists was more than just painter and muse. Exploring pairs and groups of related works, the exhibition "Manet and Morisot" reveals that while Morisot found inspiration in Manet early in her career, as her work became more daring and gained widespread recognition, Manet began to follow her example, imitating her choice of themes, her vibrant colors, and even her quick, light brushstrokes.

Illustrated essays and entries challenge gendered perspectives in Manet's bibliography, while correspondence and a technical study invite visitors to enter the shared artistic circle of the two and explore their contrasting studio practices.

Published in collaboration with the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco.

Exhibition Schedule:

Legion of Honor, Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco (October 11, 2025 – March 1, 2026)

Cleveland Museum of Art (March 29 – July 5, 2026)

Pages: 352, Year of Publication: 1217, Dimensions: 22.9x22.9cm