L'ORIGINE du MONDE
(ORIGIN OF THE WORLD)
Gustave Courbet 1819-1877
Musee d'Orsay, Paris
COMMENT by De Mer
Naturally this artwork created a sensation in 1866 when it was revealed in Paris. The artists brushwork and application of paint give the work a "sultry" and sensuous feel. Its realism, texture and subject make this painting one of the great works. The angle of composition, the honesty of detail and observation show Courbet's mastery. This realist painter led a rebellious life confronting authorities again and again till finally imprisoned and then exiled to Switzerland in 1871. He can be defined as a major influence for the impending Impressionist and its fragment movements. A lot Courbet's earlier works depicting hard working peasants and labouers caused ire in the newly formed French Social Set, and this later would influence Van Gogh. Courbet's flair, his egocentricity and fiery temprement would be the blueprint for artists for decades to come. This aptly named piece obviously shows Courbet's passion for confrontation, but should be seen as more of a kind of brutal honesty.
