\paperw19995 \margr0\margl0 \plain \fs20 \f1 This painting, now considered ManetÆs greatest masterpiece, is one of the cornerstones of modern painting, but in 1865 it wa
s rejected at the Salon, causing a huge scandal.\par
The nude is presented in all her imperfection, far from the ideal beauties that were proposed by classical painters. She is displaying her nakedness in a brazen manner, which is emphasized by details
that are intended as a malicious mockery of academic culture: the flower in her hair, the ribbon tied around her neck, the bracelet on her wrist and the charming little slippers.\par
Olympia is staring shamelessly into our eyes and seems to be proudly
challenging us to see who will be the first to look away.\par
The composition is based on strong combinations of color, obtained through shades or contrasts of tone.\par
The paleness of OlympiaÆs naked body stands out against the dazzling white of the
silk sheet.\par
The figure of the servant, on the other hand, is constructed out of the contrasts between her pale pink dress and dark-colored skin and the bright tints of the bunch of flowers.\par
The black kitten is outlined against the creamy white
of the fan on which it is standing and the dark green of the drape that forms the backdrop.
