Large Odalisque Essay

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Large Odalisque is an exotic painting of a woman that largely represents the reaction of Napoleon and European men following the French Revolution. This painting which conveys a woman in an erotic slave-like manner was a powerful message from Napoleon’s campaigns who declared wives owe obedience to their husbands. This 35X64” oil on canvas painting titled, Large Odalisque, by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres was commissioned by Napoleons’ sister as a gift to Napoleon during his ruling over Europe in 1814. This painting symbolizes the feeling of upper-middle-class European men who favored a domineering role of men towards women. The pale white body of the woman in the foreground brings light to the painting by contrasting the light skinned body with the dark blue curtains and black background. The linear cool blue color of the curtains and warm yellow color of the drapery make the viewer’s eyes attracted to the painting and move their gaze toward the center focusing on the woman. The detail and lighting greatly accentuate a silky feeling of the curtains and blankets. The body of the woman in the painting has a soft outline of her body creating the sense of smooth skin and desire. The mass of the painting is dominated by the woman who adds length horizontally by the elongated pose of her body. This is a very organic feminine figure which is emphasized the lighting and shadow effects around her breast, hip, and bottom area. There is a sense of depth created by the dark background where there is faintly painted a small bench creating diminution of space. The use of small details including the head dress and feather toy symbolizes luxury and sensuality. In the title, Large Odalisque, the term odalisque, refers to the many female slaves owned by a Sultan. Ingres was relating the message of women being related to sex and having that is their greatest purpose to men. This
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