What started the impressionist movement?

Paintings with contemporary settings were rejected, as judges had strong ideas about recreating history. A painting that included some nudity was entered in a contest, and rejected. Nudity in paintings was normally accepted owing to the talent put in, but that particular painting (The Luncheon on the Grass) by the artist Édouard Manet - which depicted a nude woman with two clothed men at a picnic - was rejected due to the contemporary background. Many sympathized with Manet at the judge's sharp rejection of his painting, and another unusual majority of paintings set off rebellion among several French artists. Manet was admired by the first four impressionists, Monet, Renoir, Sisley and Bazille. It was later decreed by the Emperor Napolean III that the public should be allowed to judge the work themselves, organizing a Salon des Refusés (Salon of the refused). This new salon attracted more visitors than the original, though most were just there for a laugh. This helped boost the rebellious spirits of the four considered the "purest 'impressionists'" -- Monet, Sisley, Bazille and Pissarro.

First answer by ID3523333383. Last edit by Dianergr. Contributor trust: 204 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 1 [recommend question]