Lecture Notes: Representation of the Female Nude and Manet's Modernity

Historical Context of Female Nude Representation

• Tradition of the female nude being represented in an erotic, sensuous way.
• Ancient Greeks and Romans set precedent with sculptures of Venus.
• Often clothed in mythology or beauty.
• Example: Venus modestly covering her body post-bath.

Manet's Radical Modern Approach

• Manet's painting at the Musée d'Orsay draws on these traditions but modernizes them.
• Immediate influence: Titian's "Venus of Urbino".
• Strips away traditional academic techniques and mythology.

Academic Art

• Sanctioned by the official academy, associated with governmental approval.
• Formulaic, satisfying with expected qualities.
• Great art was self-evident, based on classical and Renaissance ideals.

Manet's "Olympia"

• Features real woman, not idealized like Venus.
• Non-idealized features, asymmetrical face, thin lips.
• Direct gaze, confrontational presence.
• Recognized as a courtesan, named "Olympia" common for prostitutes.
• Scene: servant handing flowers, customer just arrived.
• Represents a higher-class prostitute.

New Scholarship on "Olympia"

• Denise Morell's research reveals modern life depiction including diversity.
• Inclusion of a black woman, "Laure," opens up modernity in Manet's work.
• Laure likely from the Caribbean or Africa, living close to Manet in Paris.
• Depicted in modern clothing with Caribbean references.

Artistic Representation and Reaction

• Press reaction was harsh, described "Olympia" as corpse-like.
• Criticism of Manet's outline technique and lack of flesh modeling.
• Areas of shadow emphasized unexpectedly (hands and feet).

Manet's Artistic Intent

• Rejects illusion of perfect art; embraces flatness and two-dimensionality.
• Acknowledges painting as paint on a canvas, not an illusion.
• Confronts viewer with complex layers, not ideal beauty.
• Direct gaze challenges viewer's motivations in viewing nudes.

Impact and Legacy

• Manet's work reflects on art conventions and viewer awareness.
• Calls for honesty about materials, subjects, and viewer desires.
• Response to Charles Baudelaire's call to paint modern life's beauty.
• Manet redefines beauty for the modern world.