Alfred Sisley (1839 - 1899), born in Paris to a British family, is the only Impressionist painter whose fame arose solely posthumously. His father, a wealthy merchant, envisioned a commercial career for him. Sisley, however, declined and pursued artistic training at the École des Beaux-Arts, followed by the Gleyre studio.

There, he met Monet, Bazille, and Renoir, who would remain lifelong friends and painting companions. They painted outdoors in the forests of Fontainebleau and Marlotte. Sisley specialized in tranquil landscapes and depictions of towns and villages with their waterways, bathed in expansive skies, for which he would later become renowned. His family's wealth allowed him the freedom to paint while supporting himself. Sisley exhibited at the Salon in 1866, 1868, and 1870, as well as in the first three Impressionist exhibitions and the penultimate one. However, he did not experience the same success as other painters who exhibited there. The Franco-Prussian War of 1870 dealt a significant blow to his family’s fortunes.

They lost their wealth, forcing Sisley to rely on his art for a living. During a brief stay in London in 1871, fleeing the Paris Commune, he met the art dealer Durand-Ruel. After losing his wealth, he was eventually compelled to leave Paris. By 1880, he settled in the area around Moret-sur-Loing, countryside adjacent to a medieval town. This location became a powerful new source of inspiration for the artist, and he remained there until his death in 1899. He only gained success and recognition after his death, when his talent was rediscovered. His rich body of work is now exhibited in major institutions and attracts considerable interest when presented in auction rooms.

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