Au cirque

1893

Begins Life with Marthe de Méligny

From 1893 until her death, Bonnard lived with Marthe de Méligny (born Maria Boursin); she became the model for many of his paintings, including numerous nudes.

1894

Series of Scenes of Parisian Life

Bonnard turned to a new direction — a series of paintings of Parisian life, focusing on buildings and even animals; at the same time he painted his first portrait of Marthe.

1895

First Solo Exhibition at Durand-Ruel

Bonnard's first solo exhibition — paintings, posters, and lithographs — was held at the Durand-Ruel gallery.

1895

Illustrations for Nansen's Novel Marie

Bonnard illustrated Peter Nansen's novel Marie, published serially in La Revue Blanche.

1895

Maternity Stained-Glass Design for Tiffany

Bonnard became one of the early participants in the Art Nouveau movement, creating a design for the stained-glass window Maternity for Tiffany.

1896

Nabi Group Exhibition at Vollard's

Bonnard took part in a group exhibition of the Nabis at Ambroise Vollard's gallery; in 1899 he participated in another major Nabi exhibition.