Olympia. by Édouard Manet, 1832-1883

Édouard Manet, 1832-1883
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Olympia.

Original etching in black ink. 1865. Exceptionally rare hand-printed proof. Before the retouching and before the hand was redrawn. Only one other such pre-issue proof is known (Collection Marcel Guérin). Subsequently issued, with the retouching, for the critique by Zola: Edouard Manet (edition of 600). Probably printed at the studio of Delâtre.
Ref: Guérin - Manet l?Oeuvre Gravé no 39 (proof fifth state of six). Bareau-Berès - Manet no 47

Superb rich and sparkling impression. On pale cream light laid japan (japon pelure) paper. Extremely fine condition; the faintest suggestion of a mount line. Good margins. Sheet: 7 1/2 x 11ins. Plate: 3 1/2 x 7 ins (88x178mm)

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An absolutely exceptional early proof impression before the issued edition of one of Manet?s best known and most recognisable studies in etching. Only one other proof impression in this state is known, that previously in the collection of Marcel Guérin, who wrote the first and perhaps still the most definitive catalogue of Manet?s etched work. The brilliant proof above is before the redrawing of the hand (needed to make it more defined for the later issued edition) and has the most subtle and sparkling contrasts of light and shade in the tone-work.

Just before Manet?s exhibition in 1867 the influential critic Émil Zola (who was one of Manet?s greatest supporters) suggested to the artist that he should make an image in print to accompany the pamphlet-critique that Zola was writing in his support. At first Manet thought of commissioning a wood-engraving after one of his drawings. However he abandoned that idea and decided he wanted to make an etching himself. He chose the theme of one of his most important (and controversial) paintings, the ?Olympia?. Like the painting the etching has a sensation of light and of actual reality - an actual woman aware of her nudity and in a real situation - such as had so scandalised many of the viewers of his painting. It sums up the message of his art - that of the sensation of a true modern realism.