Eugène-Louis Boudin (1796-1875), the son of a sailor, was born in Honfleur, in Normandy. While working in a stationery shop, he met artists who encouraged him, and he dedicated himself to painting after 1846. He specialized in paintings that showed the sea and beaches, with striking effects of light. Camille Corot called him “the king of skies.” He is considered to be an important influence for the Impressionists.