The Fifer
Édouard Manet · 1866
Why it's great
A young musician in a red-striped uniform stands against a plain light-gray background, playing his fife. Manet was inspired by Japanese prints and Velázquez in making the figure flat and bold. The Salon rejected it in 1866, and critics said it looked like a playing card. Today we cherish its simplicity and punch.
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.
