Europe and America 1800 1870 Manet

Summary

This lecture explores the contributions of Edward Manet, a key figure in the development of modernism and realism. Focusing on his controversial works *Luncheon on the Grass* (1863) and *Olympia* (1863-65), the video discusses how Manet challenged traditional artistic conventions with his provocative subject matter and modernist style. His works, criticized for their 'unfinished' quality and subversive themes, were a deliberate attempt to make 'art about art,' rejecting idealized forms and embracing artificiality. Manet's defiance of academic standards, including perspective and modeling, was pivotal in the evolution of modern art.

Takeaways

• 😀 Manet was a critical figure in the promotion of realism and modernist art principles, challenging traditional representations of reality.
• 😀 *Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe* (1863) caused a scandal due to its depiction of a nude woman in a casual, unidealized manner, which critics saw as shocking and improper.
• 😀 Critics were also frustrated by the flatness of the painting, inconsistent lines, and confusing spatial composition, which defied traditional artistic standards of perspective and modeling.
• 😀 The painting's subject matter, featuring a nude woman with two men in a contemporary Parisian setting, was perceived as subversive, with the nude woman possibly being seen as a prostitute.
• 😀 Manet’s modernism was not just about subject matter but also about technique—he rejected the classical use of idealized perspective, chiaroscuro, and modeling to create art that was more about the process of painting itself.
• 😀 Manet's *Olympia* (1863-65) continued his modernist approach, depicting a nude woman named Olympia, staring directly at the viewer, which contrasted with the passive nudes of traditional art.
• 😀 The subject of *Olympia* was provocative for its portrayal of a prostitute, as well as its racial commentary, featuring an African maid who brings flowers to the central figure.
• 😀 Manet’s reference to Titian’s *Venus of Urbino* in *Olympia* was a deliberate modern twist, stripping away the traditional allegorical meaning and presenting the nude as unashamed and confrontational.
• 😀 Both paintings, *Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe* and *Olympia*, challenged the idealized forms of classical art and redefined how the human figure, especially the female body, should be represented.
• 😀 Manet aimed to make 'art about art,' using historical references to challenge the standards of artistic composition, questioning the very purpose of art and freeing it from past constraints.

Q & A

Who was Édouard Manet and what role did he play in the progression of realism and modernism?

Édouard Manet was a pivotal French artist who played a key role in the development of realism and modernism. He challenged traditional artistic norms, both in terms of subject matter and stylistic execution, promoting a new way of thinking about art that would influence future generations.

What was the significance of Manet's *Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe* (1863)?

Manet's *Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe* was significant because of its controversial depiction of a nude woman in a contemporary setting, which scandalized critics. The work challenged the classical ideal of the female nude, portraying her as unapologetically naked and unidealized, which was considered inappropriate at the time.

What were the main criticisms leveled against *Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe*?

Critics criticized the painting for its flatness, lack of modeling, confusing perspective, and inconsistent lighting. The figures were also interpreted as prostitutes, which further outraged critics, especially considering the departure from the traditional representation of the nude.

How did Manet’s *Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe* contrast with Titian’s *Venus of Urbino*?

Manet's *Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe* differed from Titian’s *Venus of Urbino* in its portrayal of the female nude. While Titian’s nude was idealized and imbued with symbolic meaning, Manet’s nude was a modern, unidealized woman who appeared unashamed and confrontational, lacking the traditional beauty and symbolism.

What was Manet’s main goal in making art with works like *Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe*?

Manet’s main goal was to make art about art itself, breaking away from the tradition where art served religious, political, or social agendas. He wanted to challenge established norms and show that art did not need to conform to prescribed formal elements such as perfect linear perspective or idealized subjects.

What does the term 'artifice of art' mean in the context of Manet’s work?

The 'artifice of art' refers to the intentional acknowledgment of art as a constructed and artificial medium, rather than a window onto an idealized or natural world. Manet sought to highlight the formal elements of painting as deliberate and constructed rather than striving for illusionistic representation.

What was the significance of the Salon in the art world during Manet’s time?

The Salon was an annual exhibition sponsored by the French Royal Academy, where artists submitted their works to be judged by a jury. Works accepted into the Salon were displayed in prestigious venues like the Louvre, and this exhibition was a major platform for artists to gain recognition.

Why was Manet’s *Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe* rejected from the Salon of 1863?

Manet's *Le Déjeuner sur l'herbe* was rejected by the Salon of 1863 due to its controversial subject matter and unconventional style. The painting was considered too provocative and did not conform to the accepted standards of classical art.

What was the 'Salon des Refusés,' and why was it significant for Manet?

The 'Salon des Refusés' (Salon of the Rejected) was an alternative exhibition created in response to the many works rejected from the official Salon. It became a space for modernist artists, including Manet, to showcase their works, despite initial criticism. It helped gain exposure for Manet’s progressive style.

How did *Olympia* (1863–1865) further establish Manet’s modernist approach?

Manet’s *Olympia* reinforced his modernist approach by presenting a direct, unapologetic portrayal of a nude prostitute. The work challenged conventional depictions of the female nude, with its defiant gaze and stark realism. It also referenced past works, like Titian’s *Venus of Urbino*, but stripped away the traditional artistic conventions to create a more raw, confrontational image.