Edouard Manet’s “Olympia” is a revolutionary masterpiece that shattered artistic norms in 1865. Though not strictly an Impressionist painting due to its focus on social commentary rather than light effects, it paved the way for the movement. The centerpiece is a reclining nude woman, boldly confronting the viewer with a direct gaze. Unlike the idealized nudes of classical art, Olympia is a real woman, unashamedly sprawled on a white sheet, modeled by the artist’s frequent collaborator Victorine Meurent. A black cat nonchalantly sits at her feet, adding to the sense of informality. The inclusion of a black maid holding flowers further disrupts expectations. This is not a mythological scene, but a portrait of a Parisian courtesan in her domestic setting. Manet’s use of flat planes of color and loose brushstrokes, particularly in the background, foreshadows the Impressionist style. However, the stark contrast between the white sheet, the black ribbon around Olympia’s neck, and the vibrant bouquet intensifies the scene’s provocative nature. “Olympia” sparked outrage for its blatant sexuality and rejection of traditional art forms. Manet challenged the art world to confront the realities of modern life, paving the way for a new era in artistic expression.