This book gives a more nuanced interpretation of the schism between the Parisian Salon and the Salon des Refuses. All French artists clamored to be included in the Parisian Salon in the mid-1860s and 1870s, and beyond. It was noted for being the status quo. Painting technique was fairly prescribed and the art subjects accepted were within a certain range (certainly prostitutes would not be an accepted subject for art). Those artists now considered Impressionists were generally barred from the exhibit.

Interestingly, Emperor Napoleon III commissioned the Salon des Refuses, an alternative exhibition; some Impressionist artists took their 'refused art' from the Salon and showed it at this small, poorly-attended showing. However, it was the fact that artists defied the 'norm' that started to change things in the art world.

The information offered was fascinating. All though there were images of the artists mentioned, as well as some of the works mentioned, I found myself sitting at the computer googling to understand things like Barbizon vs. Romantics art styles, images of the art painted by various artists mentioned, and looking a the Japanese style of art that influenced Monet. I don't mean this as a criticism, but art is something I know little about and I can't expect a short book of this type to offer a complete education. I read this book in one sitting; it was just that interesting.

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