The Impressionists need little introduction. The names of Pissarro, Manet, Degas, Sisley, Cezanne, Monet and Renoir are familiar to everyone and their paintings remain highly popular over a hundred years after they first scandalized the Parisian art world. This book recounts in detail the fascinating and moving story of the Impressionist fellowship, the interwoven histories of the seven leading painters of the group and sets them in the context of the period in which they lived and worked. The superb colour plates mark the lasting achievement of this small band of friends in the face of prolonged social upheaval and personal hardship.