Am I the only one that is ticked off with this photo?
I understand that nude models both men and women are necessary for learning the figure, but I find this picture very demeaning and offensive to women. Don’t get me started on the smugness of the men…
Students and model, believed to be one of Gérome’s classes at the École des Beaux-Arts.
I agree with you Alfie. That’s how I “want” to view it but I don’t think that’s what it was. In those days the idea of a woman as being a goddess was certainly not thought of, considering the overall view was that women had lesser brains, had to be put in their place etc. A subject that would be wonderful to discuss more. We have come a long way for sure.
I understand your point, but my reading of this picture is this: I see this unique woman of the frame as being the shining point of this overall dark picture. She is the goddess, she is the focal point of the attention, the pillar, of the situation. You take her off and nothing has sense anymore.
Again, I’m not saying you are wrong but this is the way I perceive this photograph. Maybe I have a so big respect and admiration of the woman’s beauty, I might see things differently.
You’re welcome
Thanks for your comment Pondering Mind…I agree. I could just slap them :-)
It seems that some of the men are having a good fucking laugh