Born in 1841 into a family of wealth and culture, Berthe Morisot received the conventional lessons in drawing and painting. She went firmly against convention, however, pursued an individualistic impressionistic style that became distinctive for its delicacy and subtlety. Having studied for a time under Camille Corot, she later began her long friendship with Edouard Manet, who became her brother-in-law in 1874 and was the most important single influence on the development of her style. Her technique, based on large touches of paint applied freely in every direction, gives her works a transparent, iridescent quality.

In March of 1895, Berthe Morisot died of pneumonia at the age of 54. In spite of her international reputation as an artist, her death certificate bears the words "No professions".