This large canvas was rejected by the Salon, Monet exhibited it in 1867 at the Salon des Refusés. Frédéric Bazille bought the painting in monthly instalments of 50 francs, giving the painter a regular income; following Bazille's premature death in 1870, it passed into Manet's possession until Monet bought it back from him in 1876.
The three female figures in the painting are modelled on Camille Doncieux, who would later become Monet's wife.
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