Olympia

Artist

Edouard Manet

Date

1863

Size

130 × 191 cm

Materials

oil on canvas

Genre

realist influences/venus pudica

How is it shocking to the modern viewer of the 19th century?

A modern and contemporary representation of women throughout this era, challenges sexism and racism - seen as scandalous and was exhibited at the salon de refussees.

What does it reflect/imply?

confronts middle class men who use prostitutes, differs from most traditionally academic art (not formulaic) and spotlights a working class sex worker.

What does Kaegan Sparks state?

‘.. viewers see its subjects as contemporary and commonplace, not remote or idealised.’

What did Manet state about his initial feedback?

‘They are raining insults upon me!’