The Swimmer

1875

Buys his first Monet: the start of his support for friends

Caillebotte bought his first Monet in 1875 and was especially helpful to that artist, buying works and, at least in the case of Monet, paying the rent for his studio. He also helped fund Impressionist exhibitions.

1875

The Salon of 1875 rejects “The Floor Scrapers”

Some critics considered “vulgar” the picture of labourers preparing a wooden floor, believed to be that of the artist’s own studio, which is probably why the Salon of 1875 rejected it. At the time the art establishment deemed only rustic peasants or farmers acceptable subjects from the working class.

1876

His younger brother René dies

In 1876 René (1851–1876), Gustave’s younger brother, died; in some of his early works Caillebotte had used his mother and brothers as models.

1876

A debut at the Second Impressionist Exhibition

In 1876 Caillebotte made his debut at the Second Impressionist Exhibition with eight paintings, including “The Floor Scrapers” (1875), his earliest masterpiece.

1877

Takes charge of the Third Impressionist Exhibition

By the Third Impressionist Exhibition in 1877 Caillebotte had assumed the leadership role: he secured rental space, selected artists and works and hung the paintings. His involvement eventually declined, but in the end he showed works in five of the eight Impressionist exhibitions.

1879

The Fourth Impressionist Exhibition: 35 works on water and leisure

In 1879 Caillebotte submitted 35 paintings and pastels on water sports, boating and riverside leisure; “Oarsman in a Top Hat” (Boating Party) was considered one of the best of them, and the show is described as the most important exhibition of his works during his lifetime.