Book excerpt: An expert and detailed account of the painter Claude Monet, one of the key founders of the Impressionist movement and arguably the most influential painter of modern times. An insightful biography tells the story of his life, the historical context of society at the time, and the relationships with Renior, Sisley and Manet. Features a beautiful gallery of all Claude Monet's most signicficant works accompanied by in-depth analysis of his style and technique. Stunningly illustrated with more than 500 reproductions and photographs.