September Morn

Matinée de Septembre: A Controversial Masterpiece

Is Matinée de Septembre (September Morn) a mere depiction of innocence or a provocative piece that stirred controversy? This oil painting, completed in 1911 by French artist Paul Émile Chabas, has been the subject of much debate. Let’s dive into its history and explore why it continues to fascinate us.

The Birth of September Morn

Imagine a serene morning on Lake Annecy in 1910. The sun is just beginning to rise, casting a golden glow over the water. This was where Paul Émile Chabas began his masterpiece, Matinée de Septembre (September Morn). He worked for two summers, capturing the essence of that early morning light and the figure of Marthe, a 16-year-old model from a poor family.

A Name That Speaks Volumes

Why did Chabas name his painting after that particular morning? Was it just to commemorate a beautiful moment or was there more to the story? The answer lies in the artist’s own words: ‘The painting is named after that morning, but Marthe continued posing for me until she was 28. At that point, she married a rich industrialist and claimed to be 41 with three children.’ This revelation adds an intriguing layer of complexity to the piece.

Controversy in Chicago

In 1913, a full-size reproduction of September Morn was displayed in a Chicago shop window. The reaction was swift and severe. Charges were filed against Fred Jackson, the shop owner, for indecency. Was it really that shocking? Or did society’s standards play a role?

Art vs. Morality

Jeremiah O’Connor, the city’s art censor, testified that September Morn was lewd and should not be displayed in public. However, Jackson argued that a nude statue of Diana stood in front of the Montgomery Ward Building. This debate raises questions about what constitutes art versus morality.

The Met and Beyond

After its controversial debut, September Morn found its way to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1957. The painting was displayed near the front entrance, attracting visitors who might not have come otherwise. But why did it change hands so many times? And what does this tell us about its enduring appeal?

Multiple Owners and Exhibitions

The painting’s journey is a testament to its lasting impact. Leon Mantashev acquired it, only for it to be smuggled out of Russia during the October Revolution. Calouste Gulbenkian later purchased it for $30,000, and eventually, William Coxe Wright donated it to the Met in 1957.

Reproductions and Allusions

The painting’s popularity led to widespread reproductions. Newspapers paid a charge to publish them, and some were even censored. But why did people find such fascination with this piece? Was it the model’s nudity or something more?

Artistic Versus Moral Standards

Reproductions of September Morn appeared on products, in calendars, and as tattoos. Songs inspired by the painting were released, and theatrical references continued into the 1950s. Was it just a matter of artistic expression or did something deeper resonate with people?

The Legacy of September Morn

Chabas described his own views on the painting changing over time. He initially stated that he meant to sell the painting, but later said it was his wife’s favorite picture. This shift in perspective adds another layer of complexity to the piece.

Kitsch and Controversy

Reviews of September Morn have been mixed. Some praised Chabas’s technique and modeling, while others found it too delicate or lacking in charm. Later reviews described it as a classic of kitsch and considered it one of the worst ‘idealized’ nudes. Pink, soft, spineless.

Conclusion

Matinée de Septembre (September Morn) remains a fascinating piece that continues to provoke debate. Is it a mere depiction of innocence or a provocative work that stirred controversy? The answer lies in the eye of the beholder, much like the morning light Chabas captured on Lake Annecy.