Although Henri Fantin-Latour painted during the Impressionist era, he experimented with a more Realist approach, developing his own unique style. He is most known for his floral paintings and group portraits of fellow artists and writers in Paris.

Friends with the major French players - Ingres, Delacroix, Corot, Courbet, etc - he was undoubtedly influenced by their work. He too studied at the École des Beaux Arts and featured at the Salon.

As his oeuvre matured though, he began frequenting other circles i.e. Harpignies, Manet, Legros and found himself at the infamous, and legendary Salon des Refuses. Whistler would introduce him to the English scene; one that eventually became the largest market for his floral pieces.