This book reframes the formative years of three significant artists: Henri Fantin-Latour, Alphonse Legros, and James McNeill Whistler. The trio’s coming together as the
Société des trois
occurred during the emergence of the artistic avant-garde—a movement toward individualism and self-expression. Though their oeuvres appear dissimilar, it is imperative that the three artists’ early work and letters be viewed in light of the
Société,
as it informed many of their decisions in both London and Paris. Each artist actively cultivated a translocal presence, creating artistic networks that transcended national borders. Thus, this book
will serve as a comprehensive resource on the development, production, implications, and eventual end of the
Société.