Thursday, December 2, 2010

Luncheon on the Grass, Manet


Manet's Luncheon on the Grass garnered much controversy at its reveal. To have two clothed men, but two naked women was clearly politically incorrect and made many even more uneasy in that those figures were recognizable members of their community and the woman was once again looking unashamed at the audience looking at her. Not only was it a depiction of the naked body, but it was a commentary on it as well. It makes is seem ordinary, natural, as well as something that does not always have to be sexualized. The men, even in the midst of two naked women, are continuing along with the conversation with much ease. Clearly, such ease was confined to that painting only. 

Manet's original inspiration: a portion of Raphael's Judgment of Paris

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