Born in Honfleur, France, Eugène Boudin was a central figure in the transition toward Impressionism. He began his career as a stationer before dedicating himself to painting, eventually becoming a mentor to a young Claude Monet, whom he encouraged to paint outdoors. His early work was heavily influenced by the coastal light of Normandy, which remained a primary subject throughout his career.

Boudin is best known for his marine paintings and his mastery of rendering clouds and light, a skill that earned him the moniker King of the skies from Camille Corot. His technique, particularly in his pastels, was noted for its economy and directness, drawing praise from contemporary critics like Charles Baudelaire for its ability to capture the fleeting essence of the seaside.

His legacy persists in the art market, where his works continue to appear in major Impressionist and Modern art auctions. His contributions to the development of outdoor painting remain a foundational element in the history of 19th-century French art.