Pierre-Auguste Renoir. "The Seine at Asnieres". ("The Skiff"). 1879. Oil on canvas. 71 x 92 cm. National Gallery. London.

Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1841-1919) was a French Impressionist painter known for his vivid use of color and his celebration of beauty, particularly in his paintings of women and the pleasures of daily life. He was born in Limoges and began his art career as a porcelain painter before moving to Paris where he studied under Charles Gleyre. Renoir's works are considered some of the most iconic of the Impressionist movement and include paintings such as "Luncheon of the Boating Party," "Dance at Le Moulin de la Galette," and "The Girls at the Piano." Renoir suffered from rheumatoid arthritis later in life, but continued to paint until his death in 1919.