NUDE ART ON STAMPS: Édouard Manet
Édouard Manet (1832-1883) was a French painter who played a pivotal role in the transition from Realism to Impressionism. His nude paintings, such as “Olympia” and “Le Déjeuner sur l’herbe,” are iconic and controversial masterpieces in the history of art.
Manet’s approach to the nude genre was groundbreaking. He challenged traditional conventions by presenting his subjects in candid and confrontational ways. His nudes often met with scandal and censorship, as they subverted societal norms of the time.
In “Olympia,” for instance, Manet’s depiction of a reclining nude woman met with sharp criticism for its unabashed sensuality and the direct gaze of the subject. “Le Déjeuner sur l’herbe” similarly shocked audiences by placing a nude woman amidst clothed men in a picnic setting.
Manet’s nudes were a reflection of his innovative and provocative spirit, contributing significantly to the evolution of modern art. He paved the way for artists to explore the boundaries of traditional representation, sparking dialogue and transformation in the art world.
Todays stamp from Monaco (2013) depicts Manet´s painting “Olympia” from 1863.