L'Asperge
Édouard Manet · 1880
Why it's great
A single stalk of asparagus lies on a table, painted with just a few strokes. Manet made this after a collector paid more than he asked for another painting of a bunch of asparagus. It's a joke, a little 'thank you' note. It's a tiny gem.
Where to see it
📍 Musée d'OrsayParis, France
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Three places to look for a print of this painting, from budget to museum-grade:
These links open search results on each shop's own website; we don't sell anything or earn a commission, and print quality varies by seller. Ask a grown-up before you buy anything.
About the artist
Édouard Manet1832–1883 · born in former 10th arrondissement of Paris · died in 8th arrondissement of Paris
Édouard Manet was born into a wealthy Parisian family and lived in Paris all his life. He painted modern city life — cafés, bars, and picnics — in a bold, flat style that scandalized critics. He never officially joined the Impressionists, but he inspired them, and they admired him as a leader. He died in 1883 at age 51.
