Inspiration · Realism

The 100 Famous Realism Paintings That Inspire Our Artists

1793 – 1996

Ask for the most famous Realism paintings and you will hear of Gustave Courbet's The Origin of the World (1866, Musée d'Orsay), Ilya Repin's The Reply of the Zaporozhian Cossacks to Sultan Mahmoud IV (1878, The State Russian Museum) and Edward Hopper's Nighthawks (1942, Art Institute of Chicago). This ranking lists the 100 best-known Realism paintings, painted between 1793 and 1996 by 59 artists, with the museum where each one hangs today.

The Origin of the World by Gustave Courbet, 1866, Musée d'Orsay — famous Realism painting
No. 1 · Gustave CourbetThe Origin of the World1866 · Musée d'Orsay, Paris
100singular works
59masters · Jacques-Louis David – Miguel a Gandert
43homes in 28 cities
10kept at the Musée d'Orsay

Singular works

100 Realism paintings that exist only once

Every original here is unique and kept in one place. Its story, its home, and the detail that makes it unmistakable.

  1. The Origin of the World by Gustave Courbet, 1866, Musée d'Orsay
    1

    Musée d'Orsay, Paris1866Oil on canvas46 × 55 cm

    This strikingly direct depiction of a reclining nude female torso challenges conventional artistic representations, rejecting idealized beauty standards in favor of raw, unapologetic realism. Executed with remarkable skill in oil on canvas (46 x 55 cm), the painting showcases Courbet’s mastery of anatomy, light, and shadow.

    The singular detailrealismunapologetic depiction of pubic hair

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  2. The Reply of the Zaporozhian Cossacks to Sultan Mahmoud IV by Ilya Repin, 1878, The State Russian Museum
    2

    The State Russian Museum, St. Petersburg1878Oil on canvas217 × 361 cm

    The artwork portrays a chaotic and intense scene of a military gathering, where the Zaporozhian Cossacks are drafting a defiant response to Sultan Mahmoud IV's demand for their submission. The central figure is seated at a table, surrounded by armed soldiers engaged in heated discussion.

    The singular detailchaotic yet focused compositiondramatic use of light and shadow

    Painted for you from $425 A print, from $58

  3. Nighthawks by Edward Hopper, 1942, Art Institute of Chicago
    3

    Edward HopperAmerican Realism

    Nighthawks

    Art Institute of Chicago1942Oil on canvas84 × 152 cm

    The lack of interaction between the figures – the counterman and three patrons – underscores themes of loneliness and disconnection. Painted shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, this artwork reflects the anxieties and uncertainties of wartime America.

    The singular detailisolationstark lighting

    Its story

  4. Olympia by Édouard Manet, 1863, Musée d'Orsay
    4

    Édouard ManetImpressionist Realism

    Olympia

    Musée d'Orsay, Paris1863Oil on canvas130.5 × 191 cm

    Olympia, a courtesan, lies on her bed, attended by her black servant, Laure, who presents her with flowers – an act laden with complex social and economic implications. Olympia debuted at the 1863 Salon, Paris's most prestigious art exhibition.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  5. The Fog Warning by Winslow Homer, 1885, Museum of Fine Arts
    5

    Museum of Fine Arts, Boston1885Oil on canvas76.83 × 123.19 cm

    Following time spent painting fishermen in England, Homer returned to America and focused on capturing the demanding realities of maritime existence. Originally exhibited under the title “Halibut Fishing,” the renaming to "The Fog Warning" underscores the painting’s central narrative: the looming threat and urgent need for safe return.

    The singular detailapproaching foglone fisherman

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  6. Man at the Window by Gustave Caillebotte, 1875, J. Paul Getty Museum
    6

    J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles1875Oil on canvas117 × 82 cm

    While often associated with the Impressionist movement – of which he was both a participant and patron – Caillebotte’s style is distinctly rooted in Realism. Created during a period of rapid urban development in Paris under Baron Haussmann, this painting reflects the changing face of the city.

    The singular detailsomber moodintrospection

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  7. Man at the Crossroads/Man, Controller of the Univers by Diego Rivera, 1934, Palace of Fine arts
    7

    Palace of Fine arts, Mexico City1934Fresco480 × 1145 cm

    Rivera’s style is deeply rooted in Social Realism, characterized by its commitment to depicting the lives and struggles of ordinary people. As a leading figure in the Mexican Mural Movement, Rivera aimed to create art that was accessible to all, moving it from exclusive galleries into public spaces.

    The singular detailclassical motifsbotanical imagery

    Its story

  8. First Steps by Georgios Jakobides, 1892, National Gallery
    8

    Georgios JakobidesContemporary Realism

    First Steps

    National Gallery, Athens1892Oil on canvas140 × 100 cm

    Jakobides was a leading figure in the Greek artistic movement known as the Munich School, which emphasized academic realism and meticulous detail.

    The singular detailwindow with landscape viewwarm color palette

    Painted for you from $250 A print, from $58

  9. Freedom from Want by Norman Rockwell, 1942
    9

    Norman RockwellContemporary Realism

    Freedom from Want

    1942Oil on canvas

    “Freedom from Want” is one of Rockwell’s celebrated “Four Freedoms” series, inspired by Franklin D. Roosevelt's 1941 State of the Union Address. The painting’s publication in The Saturday Evening Post alongside an essay addressing domestic hardship further underscored its social relevance.

    The singular detailfamilial warmthroasted turkey

    Its story

  10. Barge Haulers on the Volga by Ilya Repin, 1870–1873, The State Russian Museum
    10

    The State Russian Museum, St. Petersburg1870–1873Oil on canvas131 × 281 cm

    In the vast landscape of nineteenth-century Russian Realism, few canvases command the viewer's attention with such raw, unyielding power as Ilya Yefimovich Repin’s Barge Haulers on the Volga. Technically, the painting is a triumph of the Realist tradition.

    The singular detaildetailed depiction of barge haulers

    Painted for you from $375 A print, from $58

  11. The Gleaners by Jean-François Millet, 1857, Musée d'Orsay
    11

    Jean-François MilletContemporary Realism

    The Gleaners

    Musée d'Orsay, Paris1857Oil on canvas84 × 111 cm

    Millet responded by confronting these changes head-on, aligning himself with artists like Gustave Courbet who championed unflinching portrayals of everyday existence. Artists like Vincent van Gogh found inspiration in Millet’s exploration of rural landscapes and human emotion —transforming his vision into vibrant canvases imbued with expressive color palettes.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  12. Gas by Edward Hopper, 1940
    12

    Edward HopperContemporary Realism

    Gas

    1940Oil on canvas102 × 66 cm

    Hopper's composition is meticulously balanced, with the gas pumps centrally placed along a diagonal line that guides the viewer's eye through the scene. Painted in 1940, "Gas" reflects Edward Hopper's signature style of capturing modern American life with a focus on solitude and introspection.

    The singular detailmuted tonessoft natural light

    Its story

  13. Reflection with Two Children (Self-Portrait) by Lucian Freud, 1965, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
    13

    Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, Madrid1965Oil on canvas91 × 91 cm

    The artwork centers around a monumental figure – the artist himself – dominating the canvas space. However, his unique approach – characterized by its intense focus on the physicality and psychological weight of his subjects – firmly establishes him as a distinct voice in modern painting.

    The singular detailscale contrastgolden circular object (mirror/light source)

    Its story

  14. Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan on November 16 by Ilya Repin, 1883–1885, Tretyakov Gallery
    14

    Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow1883–1885Oil on canvas199.5 × 254 cm

    The oil-on-canvas work titled Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan on November 16, 1885, was executed by the Russian realist artist Ilya Repin. This painting was created between 1883 and 1885. On 1 April 1885, the work became the first painting to be censored in the Russian Empire.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  15. Automat by Edward Hopper, 1927
    15

    Edward HopperContemporary Realism

    Automat

    1927Oil on canvas91 × 71 cm

    This play of light and shadow not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to the overall moodiness of the painting. Painted in 1927, "Automat" reflects the social and cultural landscape of early 20th-century America.

    Its story

  16. The Angelus by Jean-François Millet, 1858, Musée d'Orsay
    16

    Musée d'Orsay, Paris1858Oil on canvas55.5 × 66 cm

    The scene is set against a vast, open landscape under a soft, diffused sky, evoking a sense of quiet contemplation and hard work. "The Angelus" exemplifies his commitment to portraying the dignity and resilience of rural workers.

    The singular detailtwo peasants praying in a field at duskchurch steeple on the horizon

    Painted for you from $225 A print, from $58

  17. Benefits Supervisor Sleeping II by Lucian Freud, 1995
    17

    1995Oil on canvas (presumed)

    Emerging from influences like German Expressionism, Freud developed a unique style characterized by thick impasto, muted palettes, and an unwavering commitment to realism – a rejection of idealization that set him apart from many contemporaries. This painting exemplifies his mature style, solidifying his place within the “School of London” group of figurative painters.

    The singular detailrejection of idealized beauty standardslarge scale

    Its story

  18. Sunday by Edward Hopper, 1926, The Phillips Collection
    18

    Edward HopperNew Realism

    Sunday

    The Phillips Collection, Washington, D.C.1926Oil on canvas86 × 74 cm

    The painting features a solitary man sitting on a wooden bench in front of closed storefronts, evoking a sense of solitude and contemplation that is characteristic of Hopper's work. The 1920s saw the early effects of the Great Depression, and Hopper's work reflects the national anxiety and disillusionment of the time.

    The singular detailmuted color palette with subtle pops of colorsolitary figure on a bench

    Its story

  19. The Stone Breakers by Gustave Courbet, 1849, Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden
    19

    Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden1849Oil on canvas165 × 257 cm

    Gustave Courbet's "The Stone Breakers" captures the raw essence of rural life through its depiction of two laborers engaged in the arduous task of breaking stones. "The Stone Breakers" was first exhibited at the Paris Salon of 1850–1851, where it sparked controversy for its depiction of a subject considered unworthy of high art.

    The singular detaildepiction of rural laborersearthy color palette

    Painted for you from $225 A print, from $58

  20. Morning in a Pine Forest by Ivan Shishkin, 1889, Tretyakov Gallery
    20

    Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow1889Oil on canvas139 × 213 cm

    Originally conceived as a pure landscape by Shishkin, the painting was later enriched by the addition of the bear family by the renowned Russian Realist Konstantin Savitsky. This blend of Shishkin’s botanical precision and Savitsky’s animalistic vitality creates a balanced harmony between the monumental scale of the trees and the intimate drama of wildlife.

    The singular detailbears added by Konstantin Savitsky

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  21. The Israelites passing through the Wilderness by William West, 1845, Bristol Museum - Art Gallery
    21

    Bristol Museum - Art Gallery1845Oil on canvas76.2 × 63.5 cm

    The painting presents a dramatic nocturnal landscape where the heavens and earth converge under the weight of a miraculous event. West utilizes a vast mountain range in the background, its jagged peaks shrouded in mist and shadow, to emphasize the isolation and the monumental nature of the Exodus.

    The singular detaildramatic night scenepillar of light

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  22. People in the Sun by Edward Hopper, 1960
    22

    Edward HopperContemporary Realism

    People in the Sun

    1960Oil on canvas153 × 102 cm

    The painting features a strong horizontal orientation, emphasizing the row of seated figures against a vast landscape backdrop. Executed in oil on canvas, "People in the Sun" showcases Hopper's meticulous technique.

    The singular detailnatural, even lightinglinear perspective creating depth

    Its story

  23. Dante and Virgil by William-Adolphe Bouguereau, 1850, Musée d'Orsay
    23

    Musée d'Orsay, Paris1850Oil on canvas280.5 × 225.3 cm

    The painting immediately commands attention – not through overt horror, but through an unsettling stillness, a palpable sense of dread that permeates every detail. At first glance, the composition appears deceptively serene.

    The singular detailcombathell scene

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  24. Woman with a Parrot by Gustave Courbet, 1866, Metropolitan Museum of Art
    24

    Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York1866Oil on canvas130 × 196 cm

    Rejecting the idealized forms of academic tradition, Courbet focused on the raw beauty of the human form and the authenticity of everyday life. The painting's acceptance by the Paris Salon marked a significant milestone for the artist, who had previously faced rejection for his bold depictions.

    The singular detailreclining nude female figurepet parrot on outstretched hand

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  25. Alderman Charles Hardman, Mayor of Oldham by Howard Somerville
    25

    Oil on canvas153 × 102 cm

    The portrait presents an elderly gentleman in formal regalia, captured in a moment of quiet dignity. The lighting is stark, casting deep shadows that define the contours of his face and the intricate folds of his attire. This chiaroscuro effect emphasizes the physical presence of the sitter, pulling him forward from the gloom.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  26. Sorrowing old man ( by Vincent van Gogh, 1890, Kröller-Müller Museum
    26

    Vincent van GoghImpressionistic Realism

    Sorrowing old man (

    Kröller-Müller Museum, Otterlo1890Oil on canvas81.8 × 65.5 cm

    The inclusion of a patient from Saint-Rémy as a model further underscores Van Gogh’s preoccupation with human experience and his desire to capture the nuances of emotion. These subtle adjustments demonstrate Van Gogh's willingness to experiment, pushing boundaries and prioritizing expressive intent over stylistic adherence.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  27. Harvesters Resting by Jean-François Millet, 1853, Museum of Fine Arts
    27

    Museum of Fine Arts, Boston1853Oil on canvas67 × 119 cm

    Jean-François Millet's "Harvesters Resting" is a poignant depiction of rural laborers taking a moment of respite, capturing the essence of 19th-century peasant life. The composition is rich with organic lines and flowing contours that follow the figures' forms, creating a sense of harmony and depth.

    The singular detaillarge sail or piece of fabric in the backgroundinteraction among figures conveying camaraderie

    Painted for you from $400 A print, from $58

  28. A Dinner Table at Night by John Singer Sargent, 1884, Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco
    28

    Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco1884Oil on canvas51.44 × 66.67 cm

    John Singer Sargent’s “A Dinner Table at Night,” also known as “Mr. and Mrs. The setting itself—a private dining space—hints at the exclusivity of Victorian society and the importance of social gatherings in maintaining status and connections.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  29. Snap the Whip by Winslow Homer, 1872, Butler Institute of American Art
    29

    Winslow HomerAmerican Realism

    Snap the Whip

    Butler Institute of American Art, Mahoning County1872Oil on canvas55.88 × 91.44 cm

    Winslow Homer's "Snap the Whip" is a vibrant and dynamic depiction of children playing outdoors in a rural setting. The artwork captures a moment of pure joy and energy, as a group of boys engage in a lively game of tug-of-war.

    The singular detailrich earthy color palette with vibrant greens and redschildren playing crack the whip in a rural setting

    Painted for you from $350 A print, from $58

  30. A Burial at Ornans by Gustave Courbet, 1849, Musée d'Orsay
    30

    Musée d'Orsay, Paris1849Oil on canvas315 × 668 cm

    Measuring an imposing 315 x 668 cm, this monumental work irrevocably altered the course of French art, ushering in the era of Realism and challenging centuries of academic tradition. In mid- 19th century France, art was largely dominated by historical paintings, religious scenes, or idealized portraits catering to the elite.

    The singular detailhorselarge group portrait

    Painted for you from $750 A print, from $58

  31. Lane with Poplars near Nuenen by Vincent van Gogh, 1885, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen
    31

    Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, Rotterdam1885Oil on canvas97 × 78 cm

    Created during his time living with his parents in the Dutch countryside, this painting beautifully encapsulates rural life while subtly foreshadowing the stylistic innovations that would come to define his later masterpieces. Van Gogh’s approach in “Lane with Poplars near Nuenen” demonstrates his transition from traditional academic training towards a more personal artistic voice. “Lane with Poplars near Nuenen” represents an important milestone in Van Gogh’s artistic development, making it a valuable addition to any discerning collection.

    Painted for you from $225 A print, from $58

  32. The Horse Fair by Rosa Bonheur, 1852, Metropolitan Museum of Art
    32

    Rosa BonheurContemporary Realism

    The Horse Fair

    Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York1852Oil on canvas245 × 507 cm

    Completed in 1852 and debuted at the prestigious Paris Salon, the painting arrived during a transformative era of artistic experimentation.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  33. Ecce Homo by Honoré Daumier, 1852, Museum Folkwang
    33

    Museum Folkwang, Essen1852Oil on canvas160 × 127 cm

    Produced during a period of social upheaval and political unrest in France, Daumier’s work often reflected his commitment to social justice and critique of societal injustices. This scene, inspired by the biblical account of Barabbas and Jesus, symbolizes themes of innocence, guilt, and societal choice.

    The singular detailpowerful emotional sceneexpressive brushwork

    Painted for you from $350 A print, from $58

  34. Christ in the Desert by Ivan Kramskoi, 1872, Tretyakov Gallery
    34

    Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow1872Oil on canvas180 × 210 cm

    Ivan Nikolaevich Kramskoy (1837-1887) was a Russian painter and art critic who played a significant role in the development of realism in Russia. The painting was completed in 1872 and is currently housed in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  35. The Doctor by Luke Fildes, 1891
    35

    1891Oil

    Executed in 1891, The Doctor is a significant work by Sir Samuel Luke Fildes. In 1874, he painted The Casual Ward, a work that reflects his early engagement with the lived experiences of the working classes. Later, his skill in portraiture led him to create George V in 1913.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  36. Sunlight in a Cafeteria by Edward Hopper, 1958, Yale University Art Gallery
    36

    Yale University Art Gallery, Hartford1958Oil on canvas102 × 153 cm

    Rooted firmly in American Realism, Hopper’s style is characterized by a deliberate and precise approach to form, light, and shadow. Created in 1958, this painting reflects the changing landscape of post-war America – an era marked by increasing urbanization, social shifts, and a growing sense of alienation.

    The singular detailchiaroscurolight

    Its story

  37. Nymphes et satyre by William-Adolphe Bouguereau, 1873, Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute
    37

    Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute, Williamsburg1873Oil on canvas260 × 180 cm

    The painting immediately draws the eye to the group of women – nymphs – who occupy the central space, their postures ranging from relaxed repose to graceful interaction. “Nymphs et Satyre” draws upon classical mythology, specifically referencing scenes from Ovid's Metamorphoses.

    The singular detailnymphssatyrs

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  38. The Execution of the Emperor Maximillian by Édouard Manet, 1867, Museum of Fine Arts
    38

    Museum of Fine Arts, Boston1867Oil on canvas33 × 43 cm

    The figures are rendered with intense realism, emphasizing the gravity of the event and the human cost of political upheaval. This artwork is rooted in a significant historical event —the execution of Emperor Maximilian of Mexico, a figure whose brief reign and tragic demise symbolize the clash between imperial ambition and republican ideals.

    The singular detailtense confrontationdepiction of execution scene

    Painted for you from $350 A print, from $58

  39. Florinda by Franz Xaver Winterhalter, 1853, Metropolitan Museum of Art
    39

    Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York1853Oil on canvas178 × 246 cm

    The artist's use of fluid lines and organic shapes creates a sense of movement and energy, while the careful balance of light and shadow adds depth and dimension to the scene. Although primarily known for his portraits, "Florinda" demonstrates Winterhalter's versatility and ability to blend realism with a romantic sensibility.

    The singular detaildynamic poses and interactionswarm and earthy color palette

    Painted for you from $400 A print, from $58

  40. The Daughters of Edward Darley Boit by John Singer Sargent, 1882, Museum of Fine Arts
    40

    Museum of Fine Arts, Boston1882Oil on canvas221 × 222 cm

    This monumental work, measuring an imposing 221 x 222 cm, captures four young sisters—Florence, Jane, Mary Louisa, and Julia—within the sprawling, shadowy confines of their Parisian apartment. The girls are scattered throughout the room, each lost in her own private universe.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  41. Untitled (ARJCNV) by Gigo Gabashvili, 1890
    41

    1890Oil

    Untitled (ARJCNV) A solitary figure in red moves away from the viewer, walking down a dirt road. Behind him, a group of people follows, their presence adding a sense of collective purpose to the scene.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  42. The Bowery by Reginald Marsh, 1930
    42

    Reginald MarshSocial Realism

    The Bowery

    1930122 × 91 cm

    The Bowery is a painting by Reginald Marsh created in 1930. The scene captures a specific segment of urban life in New York City during the 1920s and 1930s. The provenance of the piece includes a gift from the Arthur Hoppock Hearn Fund in 1932.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  43. Portrait of a Woman by Ivan Kramskoi, 1883, Tretyakov Gallery
    43

    Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow1883Oil on canvas75.5 × 99 cm

    This work, dated about 1885, captures a singular moment of stillness. In 1871, the canvas captures serene figures and nature through Water Nymphs, where rich colors meet a gentler touch. This weight of intellectual burden finds a different, more dramatic expression in Christ in the Desert, painted in 1872.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  44. The Painter's Studio by Gustave Courbet, 1855, Musée d'Orsay
    44

    Musée d'Orsay, Paris1855Oil on canvas361 × 598 cm

    Dr. Steven Zucker begins his exploration of Gustave Courbet's monumental canvas, "The Painter’s Studio," at the Musée d’Orsay in Paris, highlighting its significance as a pivotal moment in artistic history and rejecting from the official exposition. These individuals engage in conversation and activity, creating an atmosphere of intellectual ferment and artistic ambition.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  45. Summertime by Edward Hopper, 1943
    45

    Edward HopperContemporary Realism

    Summertime

    1943Oil on canvas74 × 112 cm

    The painting presents a young woman poised on the concrete steps leading to a grand, classically-inspired building. Created during World War II, “Summertime” subtly reflects the era's mood of uncertainty and isolation. Hopper frequently explored these themes, reflecting the changing landscape of American life in the 20th century.

    The singular detaillightshadow

    Its story

  46. Woodland Scene with Lone Figure by Marion Boyd Allen
    46

    Oil paints on canvas78 × 65 cm

    The quietude of the forest finds its voice in Woodland Scene with Lone Figure, a work by the American painter Marion Boyd Allen. Rosy Brown (#b8a18c) emerges as the dominant color, casting a warm, somber glow over the composition.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  47. High Treason Trial of Roger Casement by John Lavery, 1916, Government Art Collection
    47

    Government Art Collection, London1916Oil on canvas

    Lavery meticulously crafted his composition to heighten the drama inherent in the trial. Roger Casement, a diplomat with sympathies for Irish nationalism, was arrested shortly before the uprising after attempting to recruit Irish prisoners of war for a rebel army.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  48. Christ Meeting His Mother on the Way to Calvary by William-Adolphe Bouguereau, 1888, Forest Lawn Museum
    48

    Forest Lawn Museum1888Oil-on-canvas

    Bouguereau, celebrated for his idealized beauty, here channels that skill into portraying one of history's most agonizing moments.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  49. Second Version of Triptych 1 by Francis Bacon, 1944
    49

    1944Oil on canvas

    This deliberate ambiguity is central to Bacon’s project: he wasn't interested in depicting recognizable reality but rather in conveying raw emotion and existential dread. Painted in 1944, at the height of World War II, this work reflects the pervasive sense of anxiety and disillusionment that gripped Europe.

    Its story

  50. The Balcony by Édouard Manet, 1869, Musée d'Orsay
    50

    Musée d'Orsay, Paris1869Oil on canvas170 × 124 cm

    The late 19th century witnessed a growing fascination with portraying contemporary bourgeois life. It was exhibited at the Paris Salon in 1869 alongside another groundbreaking work by Manet, Olympia, both provoking considerable debate and solidifying his position as a leading figure in modern art.

    The singular detailfanny Clauspossibly Léon Leenhoff

    Painted for you from $250 A print, from $58

  51. The Gross Clinic by Thomas Eakins, 1875, Philadelphia Museum of Art
    51

    Thomas EakinsContemporary Realism

    The Gross Clinic

    Philadelphia Museum of Art1875Oil on canvas

    The painting depicts Dr. Samuel D. Gross performing surgery on a young patient for osteomyelitis of the femur at Jefferson Medical College. This work is significant not only for its artistic merit but also for its historical documentation of surgical practices in the 19th century.

    The singular detailhistorical documentation of surgical practicesdepiction of Dr. Samuel D. Gross performing surgery

    Painted for you from $350 A print, from $58

  52. Truth by Jules Lefebvre, 1870, Musée d'Orsay
    52

    Jules LefebvreAcademic Realism

    Truth

    Musée d'Orsay, Paris1870Oil on canvas265 × 112 cm

    Lefebvre’s ability to capture both the physical perfection of the human form and an ethereal, emotional depth ensures that Truth remains as relevant today as it was in 1870, serving as a constant, luminous reminder of the beauty found in clarity and grace.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  53. The Sleepers by Gustave Courbet, 1866, Petit Palais
    53

    Gustave CourbetContemporary Realism

    The Sleepers

    Petit Palais, Paris1866Oil on canvas135 × 200 cm

    One figure leans forward to press a tender kiss against the neck of her companion, a gesture that breathes life and warmth into the stillness of the composition. During a time when the art world was obsessed with grand narratives and heroic legends, Courbet dared to find greatness in the domestic sphere.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  54. Portrait of a young girl by Alexei Harlamov, 1881, Museum of Fine Arts (Lyon
    54

    Museum of Fine Arts (Lyon, France)1881Oil painting

    As she gazet directly at the viewer, her expression—a delicate balance between serious contemplation and youthful curiosity—creates an immediate, almost intimate connection. The Portrait of a Young Girl (22) possesses a versatile elegance that complements both traditional, opulent settings and contemporary, minimalist interiors.

    The singular detaildetailed texturesmasterful use of color

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  55. Messalina in the Arms of the Gladiator by Joaquín Sorolla, 1886
    55

    1886Oil

    A woman lies motionless, her hair woven with blossoms that seem to hold the weight of her stillness. The light catches the textures of the scene in specific, tactile ways: The soft, organic curves of the flowers in her hair.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  56. Mists amongst the Coniston Fells by James Henry Crossland, Abbot Hall Art Gallery
    56

    Abbot Hall Art Gallery, KendalOil on canvas

    This landscape is the creation of James Henry Crossland, an artist who spent his life observing the shifting moods of the natural world. His connection to these landscapes remained deep throughout his life, eventually leading him to his final rest in Ambleside, Cumbria, where he died in 1939.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  57. Oak Grove by Ivan Shishkin, 1887, Kiev National Picture Gallery
    57

    Ivan ShishkinContemporary Realism

    Oak Grove

    Kiev National Picture Gallery, Kyiv1887Oil on canvas42 × 62 cm

    As one stands before this oil on canvas, the immediate sensation is one of total immersion. The composition of Oak Grove is a masterclass in natural balance and structural stability.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  58. Chop Suey by Edward Hopper, 1929
    58

    Edward HopperContemporary Realism

    Chop Suey

    1929Oil on canvas96 × 81 cm

    Behind them, a man sits alone at another table, adding depth and a sense of solitude to the composition. "Chop Suey" was painted during the late 1920s, a period marked by significant social and cultural changes in America.

    The singular detailneon sign reading 'SUE' on the right sidedynamic interplay of warm and cool tones

    Its story

  59. The Dance Class by Edgar Degas, 1873, Musée d'Orsay
    59

    Edgar DegasImpressionistic Realism

    The Dance Class

    Musée d'Orsay, Paris1873Oil on canvas85 × 75 cm

    Degas’s technical prowess is most evident in his ability to marry Impressionistic light with Realist precision. At its heart, “The Dance Class” is an exploration of the human condition through the lens of artistic pursuit.

    Painted for you from $475 A print, from $58

  60. Rue Mouffetard 1954 by Henri Cartier-Bresson, 1954
    60

    1954Gelatin silver print

    Later, the Staley-Wise Gallery in New York acquired the work from its previous owner. Hardin, M.D., entering the institution's care as accession number 1990.40. It is a physical fragment of 1954, kept under the care of the museum's curators.

    Its story

  61. West Australian Shrubby Vegetation by Marianne North, 1880, Marianne North Gallery
    61

    Marianne North Gallery, Richmond1880Oil paint on canvas51 × 35 cm

    The eye meets "West Australian Shrubby Vegetation" by Marianne North, a work that captures a specific moment in the natural history of a distant land. It presents a dense assemblage of native plants, where every stem and leaf feels present and alive. The painting resides within the walls of the Marianne North Gallery, located in Richmond. These works exist alongside West Australian Vegetation, another piece from 1880 that shares this same geographic focus.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  62. The Wave by William-Adolphe Bouguereau, 1896
    62

    1896Oil on canvas121 × 161 cm

    Bouguereau's technical skill is on full display in The Wave. The painting's size (121 x 161 cm) further enhances this immersive experience. Bouguereau was a leading figure in the academic art movement of 19th-century France. However, with the rise of modernism in the early 20th century, his work fell out of favor.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  63. Unexpected Return. by Ilya Repin, 1884, Tretyakov Gallery
    63

    Ilya RepinContemporary Realism

    Unexpected Return.

    Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow1884Oil on canvas160 × 167 cm

    The scene depicts the arrival of a revolutionary exile, a man whose very presence brings the turbulent winds of the Narodnik movement into the quietude of a Russian home. Eschewing the vibrant, light-drenched palettes of the Impressionists, Repin utilized a more subdued and atmospheric color scheme, deeply rooted in the traditions of Russian landscape painting.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  64. Portrait of a Woman by Vincent van Gogh, 1885, Van Gogh Museum
    64

    Vincent van GoghImpressionistic Realism

    Portrait of a Woman

    Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam1885Oil on canvas27 × 22 cm

    This particular portrait reflects this fascination with portraying ordinary individuals with dignity and sensitivity—a characteristic that would become synonymous with Van Gogh’s artistic vision. “Portrait of a Woman” is considered one of Van Gogh's earliest masterpieces, marking an important step in his artistic evolution toward Expressionism.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  65. Twilight by Ivan Shishkin, 1883
    65

    1883Oil

    The painting Twilight, known in its original Russian as Сумерки, was rendered by Ivan Shishkin in 1883. The artist, Ivan Shishkin, focused his attention on the quietude of the woods as the sun retreats behind the trees. In this 1883 creation, the artist moves through the landscape with a disciplined eye for detail.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  66. Portrait of the Artist's Mother by Pablo Picasso, 1896, Museu Picasso
    66

    Museu Picasso, Barcelona1896Oil on canvas

    Pablo Picasso's Portrait of the Artist's Mother is a remarkable early work that showcases the artist's talent and vision. Painted in 1896, when Picasso was only 15 years old, this oil on canvas painting is an example of his academic training and demonstrates his extraordinary artistic abilities.

    The singular detailformal compchiaroscuro

    Its story

  67. La famille by Fernando Botero
    67

    Fernando BoteroContemporary Realism

    La famille

    Oil on canvas

    The composition centers on a family unit—a mother seated between her two children, all gathered beneath the sheltering canopy of a tree.

    Its story

  68. The poetry reading by Vittorio Reggianini
    68

    Oil

    One woman, draped in a white dress, sits to the left, while her companions are dressed in shades of pink. The interplay of light on the fabric reveals the weight and sheen of the material, a hallmark of the artist's approach to the private sphere.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  69. Office at Night by Edward Hopper, 1940
    69

    Edward HopperContemporary Realism

    Office at Night

    1940Oil on canvas56 × 64 cm

    The composition features a woman standing by a filing cabinet on the left side and a man seated at a desk working on the right. Created in 1940, "Office at Night" reflects the social and professional dynamics of the time.

    The singular detailmuted color palette with a striking blue dresstypewriter in the foreground

    Its story

  70. Bouquet of violets by Édouard Manet, 1872
    70

    1872Oil on canvas27 × 22 cm

    It foreshadowed the radical aesthetic innovations that would characterize Impressionism's subsequent years, establishing Manet as one of its foremost champions. Artists like Jean Baptiste Armand Guillaumin, whose " Place Valhubert " shares a similar aesthetic sensibility, owe a debt to Manet’s groundbreaking approach.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  71. Man with a Hoe by Jean-François Millet, 1862, Getty Center
    71

    Getty Center, Los Angeles1862Oil on canvas80 × 99 cm

    The composition of "Man With A Hoe" is both balanced and dynamic. Millet's work during this period cast a critical light on the conditions of rural labor under the Second Empire, highlighting the often marginal status of peasants within French society. "Man With A Hoe" has had a lasting influence on art and literature. It inspired Edwin Markham's 1898 poem " The Man With the Hoe," which became a symbol of labor exploitation and social reform.

    The singular detailsolitary figure engaged in manual laborearthy and muted color palette

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  72. Tunas (Still Life with Prickly Pear Fruit) by Frida Kahlo
    72

    Oil on canvas

    While best known for her Surrealist -leaning self-portraits, Tunas demonstrates Kahlo’s versatility and grounding in earlier artistic traditions. The style leans towards early 20th-century realism, yet possesses a distinct flattening of perspective characteristic of Mexican folk art. Kahlo frequently incorporated elements of her Mexican heritage into her work, and this still life is no exception.

    The singular detailpearred apple

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  73. Brigid Polk by Gerhard Richter, 1971
    73

    Gerhard RichterContemporary Realism

    Brigid Polk

    1971Painting100 × 125 cm

    Gerhard Richter’s “Brigid Polk” (1971) presents a deceptively simple image – a woman reclining on her side against a muted wall – yet it encapsulates the core tenets of Richter's artistic philosophy: a preoccupation with photographic representation filtered through layers of abstraction.

    Its story

  74. Loch Coruisk, Isle of Skye by Sidney Richard Percy, 1874
    74

    1874Oil on canvas116 × 182 cm

    The painting presents a majestic scene with a lake in the foreground, surrounded by towering mountains. 'CITE> Sidney Richard Percy's work is notable for its attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of natural landscapes. For more information on art museums, visit Serpukhov Historical and Art Museum (Serpukhov, Russia).

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  75. A Little Piece of Yorkshire by David Hockney, Neue Sammlung Munich
    75

    Neue Sammlung MunichOil

    The composition is anchored by three large trees in the foreground, creating a rhythmic structure across the landscape. Using broad, gestural strokes and a vibrant palette of yellows and oranges, Hockney simplifies forms to capture the essence of light and movement.

    Its story

  76. The Last Muster by Hubert von Herkomer, 1875, Lady Lever Art Gallery
    76

    Lady Lever Art Gallery, Ліверпуль1875Oil on canvas

    The arrival of this work at the Royal Academy in 1875 creates an immediate sensation. In Hard Times (1885), a struggling family faces the harshness of their circumstances, a theme that echoes the quiet dignity found in his depictions of the working class.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  77. Young woman reading by a window by Delphin Enjolras
    77

    Oil on canvas

    The composition utilizes this light to establish a sense of warmth and domestic stillness. The arrangement of these elements emphasizes a sense of peace and the simple pleasure of a private moment.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  78. Portrait of a Young Girl by Bertha Wegmann, 1890
    78

    1890Oil on canvas

    The work is a portrait of a young girl, rendered with the meticulous detail characteristic of the artist's approach to her subjects. Wegmann, a prominent figure in the Danish Realism movement, was born in Soglio, Switzerland.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  79. The Fifer by Édouard Manet, 1866, Musée d'Orsay
    79

    Édouard ManetContemporary Realism

    The Fifer

    Musée d'Orsay, Paris1866Oil on canvas161 × 97 cm

    This influence is palpable in the painting's composition—a stark monochrome background punctuated by vibrant splashes of color—a technique that anticipates the groundbreaking innovations of Impressionists like Monet and Renoir. "The Fifer" solidified Manet's position as a pioneer of modern art.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  80. Peasant Family by Pavel Filonov, 1910, State Russian Museum
    80

    Pavel FilonovAnalytical Realism

    Peasant Family

    State Russian Museum, Saint Petersburg1910Oil on canvas159 × 128 cm

    Filonov was a key figure in developing “Analytical Realism,” a style he termed "anti- Cubism." Unlike the fragmented geometric forms of Cubism, Analytical Realism sought to represent an object's inner essence – its ‘soul’ – through meticulous detail and layered construction.

    The singular detailvibrant color palettedense composition

    Painted for you from $250 A print, from $58

  81. The Death of Marat by Jacques-Louis David, 1793, Louvre
    81

    Louvre, Paris1793Oil on canvas

    David, then at the height of his Neoclassical powers, deliberately eschewed the opulent grandeur favored by earlier generations, opting instead for a stark, almost journalistic depiction that immediately confronts the viewer with the horror of Marat’s demise. The painting portrays Marat, the radical journalist and politician who spearheaded the Montagnard faction during the revolution, lying dead in his bath. The blood staining the bathwater represents not only Marat's violent death but also the bloodshed that was consuming France.

    The singular detailclose-up scene

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  82. Mother by Aleksandr Deyneka, 1932
    82

    Aleksandr DeynekaSocialist Realism

    Mother

    1932120 × 159 cm

    Its story

  83. El Comanche David, Talpa, NM by Miguel a Gandert, 1996
    83

    1996Silver gelatin print41 × 51 cm

    In this black and white photograph, titled El Comanche David, Talpa, NM, the artist Miguel A Gandert captures a singular moment of cultural expression. Created about 1996, this work by Miguel A Gandert offers a direct look at the traditions of the genízaro people.

    Its story

  84. Orbea Hermanos Model 1884 Military Revolver by Fábrica Orbea Hermanos, 1884, Museum of the Civil Guard
    84

    Museum of the Civil Guard, Madrid1884Painting

    The Orbea Hermanos Model 1884 Military Revolver is a precise instrument of steel and wood. Created by Fábrica Orbea Hermanos, this piece dates to about 1884. Inside the museum, the image of the Orbea Hermanos Model 1884 Military Revolver finds its place among a collection of weaponry and uniforms.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  85. Español Desnudo masculino by Alfredo Valenzuela Puelma, 1890
    85

    1890Oil

    A man sits prominently in the foreground, his legs crossed in a posture of relaxed contemplation. This creates an intimacy that feels unforced and private.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  86. A passing glance by Thomas Pollock Anshutz
    86

    Oil paints on canvas

    This arrangement creates a dual presence, capturing a fleeting instance of self-reflection through the mirrored image. The subject's gaze suggests a sense of contemplation or melancholy. The work is reminiscent of late 19th and early 20th-century American Impressionism or Realism.

    Painted for you from $225 A print, from $58

  87. Ema by Gerhard Richter, 1992
    87

    Gerhard RichterContemporary Realism

    Ema

    1992Oil on canvas153 × 227 cm

    Richter's response wasn’t merely stylistic imitation; it was an acknowledgement of artistic lineage while forging his own distinctive path, firmly rooted in European Pop Art sensibilities.

    Its story

  88. Boyarynya Morozova by Vasily Surikov, 1887, Tretyakov Gallery
    88

    Tretyakov Gallery, Moscow1887Oil on canvas304 × 587 cm

    Surikov drew upon the grit of his childhood in Siberia to render this historical drama. The work is an oil on canvas of immense scale, measuring 304 cm in height and 587.5 cm in width. The paint holds the chill of the Russian winter within its very grain.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  89. New York Movie by Edward Hopper, 1939, MOMA - Museum of Modern Art
    89

    Edward HopperModern American Realism

    New York Movie

    MOMA - Museum of Modern Art, New York City1939Oil on canvas

    It is currently housed at the prestigious Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, United States. "CITE>New York Movie" is a significant piece in the history of modern art, reflecting the changing urban landscape and the emotional states of its inhabitants.

    The singular detailred curtainclocks

    Its story

  90. The Woman in the Waves by Gustave Courbet, 1868, Metropolitan Museum of Art
    90

    Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York1868Oil on canvas65 × 54 cm

    A Bold Departure from Academic Tradition: Courbet’s decision to portray the female nude with unflinching honesty – capturing subtle details like underarm hair – directly challenged the prevailing artistic conventions championed by the École des Beaux-Arts, marking a decisive break from idealized representations prevalent at the time.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  91. Old Women or Time by Francisco Goya, 1810
    91

    1810Oil on canvas181 × 125 cm

    The painting immediately draws the eye with its carefully constructed composition – a deliberate arrangement that amplifies the sense of unease. The figures, rendered in Goya’s signature somber palette of browns, greys, and muted blues, are bathed in an almost theatrical gloom, suggesting a space perpetually caught between light and shadow. "Old Women or Time" was painted during a period of immense social and political upheaval in Spain. Some scholars suggest the scene alludes to the plight of women in 19th-century Spain, often relegated to domestic roles and facing a precarious existence.

    The singular detaileerie atmosphere

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  92. The Potato Harvest by Jean-François Millet, 1855, Walters Art Museum
    92

    Walters Art Museum, Baltimore1855Oil on canvas54 × 65.2 cm

    The scene is set in the open plains between Barbizon and Chailly, immersing viewers in the heart of the countryside. The figures are portrayed with meticulous attention to detail, their postures and tools emphasizing the physical effort and communal spirit of agricultural labor.

    The singular detailrural labordramatic sky

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  93. The Right Honourable J. Ramsay Macdonald Addressing the House of Commons by John Lavery, 1923, Glasgow Art Gallery and Museum
    93

    Glasgow Art Gallery and Museum1923Oil on canvas

    The painting immortalizes Ramsay Macdonald's address to the House of Commons – a landmark event marking his tenure as the first Labour Prime Minister. The composition is densely packed with figures – Members of Parliament engaged in lively discussion – demonstrating Lavery's skill in capturing a sense of depth and dynamism.

    Painted for you from $1050 A print, from $58

  94. Colonisation, 'The Great City of Tenochtitlan' by Diego Rivera, 1952
    94

    1952Mural painting971 × 492 cm

    The scene unfolds against a backdrop of a stark field, punctuated by the distant silhouettes of trees – a deliberate choice that emphasizes the vulnerability of the indigenous landscape before the encroaching forces of Spanish colonialism. The painting’s subject is unequivocally the Spanish conquest of Tenochtitlan, the magnificent capital of the Aztec Empire.

    The singular detailspanish conquest

    Its story

  95. Moonlight Night on the Dnieper by Arkhip Kuindzhi, 1880
    95

    1880Oil-on-canvas105 × 144 cm

    The painting presents a nocturnal view of the Dnieper River banks under the influence of a full moon. In this upper expanse, clouds move across the dark atmosphere, through which moonlight filters to create patches of light. The painting was first exhibited at the Society for the Encouragement of Arts in St. Petersburg.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  96. Figures Resting in a River Landscape by Peder Mørk Mønsted, 1898
    96

    1898Oil on canvas

    Figures Resting In A River Landscape is an oil on canvas work by Peder Mørk Mønsted, executed in 1898. A Tranquil Pond and Vandlob I Skoven 1 reflect his ability to capture stillness and the subtle nuances of light within woodland and aquatic settings.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  97. Wind from the Sea by Andrew Wyeth, 1947
    97

    Andrew WyethContemporary Realism

    Wind from the Sea

    194747 × 70 cm

    Its story

  98. The second House of Architect by João Batista Vilanova Artigas, 1948, Oscar Niemeyer Museum
    98

    Oscar Niemeyer Museum, Curitiba1948Painting

    Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and built in 1946–1948, the house was designed for the journalist Herbert Jacobs and his wife Katherine, whose first house he had designed a decade earlier. The Jacobs Second House has been added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 and declared a National Historic Landmark in

    Its story

  99. The Country School by Winslow Homer, 1871, Saint Louis Art Museum
    99

    Saint Louis Art Museum1871Oil on canvas54 × 97.2 cm

    As the viewer enters the space of this oil on canvas, they are immediately enveloped by a sense of tranquil industry. Technically, "The Country School" reveals Homer’s exceptional ability to manipulate chiaroscuro, a technique reminiscent of the Renaissance masters.

    Painted for you from $200 A print, from $58

  100. Men of the Docks by George Bellows, 1912, National Gallery
    100

    National Gallery, London1912Oil on canvas114.3 × 161.3 cm

    Created in 1912, this piece exemplifies the bold brushwork and atmospheric effects characteristic of American realism and impressionism. This piece aligns with the Ashcan School’s ethos, portraying the raw, unvarnished truth of city labor and industry.

    The singular detailvivid scene of dockworkersships

    Painted for you from $325 A print, from $58

Lineages

The famous Realism paintings by lineage

Where they live

The one place you can see each famous Realism painting

Paris keeps 13 of these originals; the Musée d'Orsay, 10.

Art Institute of Chicago1

The masters

The Realism masters our artists look to

Portrait of Edward Hopper

Edward Hopper

1882–1967 · United States of America · 10

American realist of urban isolation and evocative light, capturing the quietude of a late-night diner or a solitary roadside gas station.

3. Nighthawks, 12. Gas, 15. Automat, 18. Sunday, 22. People in the Sun, 36. Sunlight in a Cafeteria, 45. Summertime, 58. Chop Suey, 69. Office at Night, 89. New York Movie

Portrait of Gustave Courbet

Gustave Courbet

1819–1877 · France · 7

French Realist known for thick impasto and unvarnished depictions of manual labor and nature, from stone breakers to rugged landscapes.

1. The Origin of the World, 19. The Stone Breakers, 24. Woman with a Parrot, 30. A Burial at Ornans, 44. The Painter's Studio, 53. The Sleepers, 90. The Woman in the Waves

Portrait of Édouard Manet

Édouard Manet

1832–1883 · France · 5

French modernist painter of Parisian café scenes and bold, direct brushwork who bridged the gap between Realism and Impressionism.

4. Olympia, 38. The Execution of the Emperor Maximillian, 50. The Balcony, 70. Bouquet of violets, 79. The Fifer

Portrait of Jean-François Millet

Jean-François Millet

1814–1875 · France · 5

French Realist of the Barbizon school who captured the heavy, sculptural toil of peasants through earthy tones and monumental forms.

11. The Gleaners, 16. The Angelus, 27. Harvesters Resting, 71. Man with a Hoe, 92. The Potato Harvest

Portrait of Ilya Repin

Ilya Repin

1844–1930 · Ukraine · 4

Russian Realist known for psychological depth and powerful depictions of the human condition, from barge haulers to defiant Cossacks.

2. The Reply of the Zaporozhian Cossacks to Sultan Mahmoud IV, 10. Barge Haulers on the Volga, 14. Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan on November 16, 63. Unexpected Return.

Portrait of William-Adolphe Bouguereau

William-Adolphe Bouguereau

1825–1905 · France · 4

French academic realist known for luminous skin tones and idealized mythological figures, rendered with meticulous anatomical precision.

23. Dante and Virgil, 37. Nymphes et satyre, 48. Christ Meeting His Mother on the Way to Calvary, 62. The Wave

Portrait of Winslow Homer

Winslow Homer

1836–1910 · United States · 3

American Realist known for powerful maritime scenes and fluid watercolors of the sea and tropics, capturing the raw force of nature.

5. The Fog Warning, 29. Snap the Whip, 99. The Country School

+52more masters our artists study Realism Masters Their stories

In confidence

About these Realism paintings

Hover gently over a question to read the answer.

Who is the most important Realism painter?

Judged by this ranking, Edward Hopper: 10 of the 100 most famous Realism paintings are from this painter's hand, including Nighthawks, Gas and Automat.

Can I buy a reproduction of a Realism painting?

Yes: 74 of the 100 can be ordered as a hand-painted oil reproduction, from $200, and 74 as a canvas print, from $58.

How is this ranking made?

By recognition: Wikipedia articles in the most languages (Wikidata sitelinks), our manual ranking and page visits. Several records of one painting count once; details, copies and studies are excluded.

One of a kind

74 of the 100, painted for you alone

74 of these works can be painted by hand for a single owner, from $200.

The Origin of the World by Gustave CourbetThe Reply of the Zaporozhian Cossacks to Sultan Mahmoud IV by Ilya RepinNighthawks by Edward HopperOlympia by Édouard ManetThe Fog Warning by Winslow Homer

Discover original art

How the selection is made

We went through every Realism painting in our catalogue and placed the best-known first: those Wikipedia describes in the most languages, those our artists and curators rank highest and those most viewed on our pages. Each original appears once — no details or copies.

Other movements that inspire us

The periods that inspire us