So, even though spare time for me is rare, I have managed to pick up (and actually complete) an entire book. This one was recommended to me by a family friend who shares the same passion for one of my favorite painters; John Singer Sargent. Strapless: John Singer Sargent and the Fall of Madame X by Deborah Davis is a non-fiction (Woah me) piece centered around Sargent's famous portrait of Madame Gautreau which later became known as Madame X.
Davis does a really nice job of piecing together historical information, which could tend to lean towards the dry side, and inferences to create an interesting and worthwhile read. For those of you who aren't familiar with the backstory Gautreau was a wealthy american heiress wed to a parisian guy who created quite a stir in the late 19th century on the French high society circuit due to her prominent nose, fashionable ways, etc. Sargent became enamored with painting her and unveiled the massive portrait (now known as Madame X) with *gasp* her strap falling down her arm leaving her shoulder bare. Scandal ensued, Gautreau was disgraced, and Sargent painted over the original painting. But, like most things historical there was much more to the story and Davis uncovers it!
I would highly recommend reading this book (I feel a bit like reading rainbow here) it had intrigue, it had sex, it had scandal. And just for the hell of it, because I really do love Singer Sargent paintings:
The Chess Game by John Singer Sargent
and the repainted version of Madame X
Both images are from JohnSingerSargent.org.
-R.
can i borrow this sometime?
Posted by: amy | October 18, 2009 at 09:06 PM
i want to read it! did you buy it?/can i borrow?
Posted by: molly | October 19, 2009 at 10:22 AM