A major influence of realism, leading to Naturalism, and on Impressionism, Courbet was one of those who paved the way for modern art.
Salon
A lot changed in painting in the 1890s. Within just a few years, Naturalism went from being all the rage to old hat. These paintings show how.
Despite his reputation, his narratives often addressed serious and subtle issues, and his was a master of narrative painting.
The Eclectic Light Company 