Making Her Mark – Self Portraits IV

On By ResaIn Making Her Mark

Welcome back everyone! Today Rebecca Budd curator of Chasing Art  and I are going to present and discuss the 18th century artist, Anne Guéret!

Resa – Rebecca, how wonderful to have you back! I know it is believed that this is a self portrait of Anne Guéret but no one can verify it. Still, I have included it in this series. I hope you are good with that?

Rebecca – I am delighted that you have included Anne Guéret’s Portrait of an Artist with a Portfolio, Resa! This painting revolutionized the portrayal of women artists. I believe that it is an essential addition to your “MHM”* series.

Resa – Well, let’s get to everything you found out!

Mlle Guéret the Younger

Anne Guéret (1760–1805), also known as Mlle Guéret the Younger, was a notable French painter who was active at the end of the 18th century and the beginning of the 19th century. Despite being orphaned as a child, she and her sister Louise Catherine Guéret were fortunate to be adopted by the renowned dramatist and librettist Michel-Jean Sedaine.

His act of adoption not only provided the sisters with a stable upbringing but also served as a catalyst for their artistic pursuits, shaping their future as prominent figures in the art world of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Under Sedaine’s care, they were introduced to esteemed painters Henri-Pierre Danloux and Jacques-Louis David, who provided them with valuable art lessons.

Salon Debut

Anne Guéret’s debut at the Salon in 1793 marked the beginning of her successful exhibition career. She continued to showcase her work in Salons until 1801, focusing primarily on presenting portraits of notable individuals. Her dedication to portraying prominent figures through her artwork and her lasting impression on the cultural heritage of France have solidified her status as a noteworthy figure in art history.

Portrait of an Artist with a Portfolio”

Resa – This particular “Salon” she first showed at is very famous. I’m just hearing about it now, and I think other female artists of the era presented there?

Rebecca – Indeed, they did! The Salon aka Paris Salon had its debut in 1667. It was the official art exhibition of the Académie des Beaux-Arts in Paris. Between 1748 and 1890, it was arguably the greatest annual or biennial art event in the Western world. The Salon played a significant role in the exhibition and recognition of artists during the 18th and 19th centuries.

While the official inclusion of women artists in the Salon was a gradual process, it did eventually provide opportunities for them to exhibit their paintings. Contemporaries of Anne Guéret, Anne Vallayer-Coster and Adélaïde Labille-Guiard, also participated in the Salon. Their contribution marked progressive attitudes towards women artists during that period.

Portrait of an Artist with a Portfolio

Anne Guéret’s “Portrait of an Artist with a Portfolio” was prominently displayed at the Salon of 1793, marking a significant moment in her exhibition career.

From a 21st-century perspective, the portrait of a young woman drawing by Anne Guéret (possibly a self-portrait) may appear unremarkable at first glance. However, upon closer examination, it represents a significant turning point in the history of women artists in Europe.

Click on pic to better see the nude drawing

The depiction of the seated woman drawing a nude male figure, albeit likely from a print or sculpture rather than a live model, signifies a progressive shift in attitudes towards women artists in the late 18th century.

Resa – Yes, the nude figure is remarkable for that era. Very few women dared.

Rebecca – According to historical records and analysis, Anne Guéret was not the first woman artist to paint a nude figure. Previous female artists, including Artemisia Gentileschi and Lavinia Fontana, portrayed nude figures in their artwork.

However, Anne Guéret positioned herself drawing a nude male figure, which holds significance in the context of late 18th-century art. Anne Guéret’s choice to depict herself engaging in this subject matter challenged traditional gender roles, contributed to the evolving status and recognition of women artists and carries symbolic weight to the changing perception of women artists during that era.

This remarkable piece of artwork, executed with black chalk, stumping, pen, grey ink, and grey wash on buff paper, measures 320 x 404 mm (12 5/8 x 15 7/8 in.) and reflects Anne Guéret’s distinctive artistic style and technical versatility.

The Evolving Status and Recognition of Women Artists

Anne Guéret’s relatively limited body of work available to us today can be attributed to several factors. As a female artist during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, she faced societal and institutional barriers that restricted her artistic opportunities and recognition. The historical context of the French Revolution and its aftermath created a turbulent environment that may have impacted the production and preservation of her artwork.

These combined factors may have contributed to the scarcity of paintings attributed to Anne Guéret. Despite the scarcity of paintings attributed to her, Anne Guéret’s enduring impact and revolutionary artistic vision continue to inspire and enrich the cultural heritage of France and Europe.

Anne Guéret’s indelible mark on the art world of the late 18th and early 19th centuries transcends the limitations she faced as a female artist during that era. Her dedication to her craft and the symbolic weight carried by her artworks serve as a testament to the evolving status and recognition of women artists.

Currently held in a private collection in France, this portrait serves as a monument to Anne Guéret’s enduring impact on the art world of the late 18th century.

Resa – I’m so glad we’ve shared this portrait by Anne Guéret, especially since so little of her art survived.

Rebecca – Resa, thank you for the invitation to join you on “MHM” series of posts. This experience has truly been a transformative journey of self-discovery for me. Anne Guéret challenges us to embrace boldness in our creative pursuits, urging us to push boundaries and explore new possibilities without fear of failure. Her message serves as a powerful reminder to step outside comfort zones and unleash creativity without reservation.

For Rebecca’s research links not included in the text, click on the above banner.

You can also visit Rebecca in her Reading Room!

Photos of Portrait of an Artist with a Portfolio taken by © Resa McConaghy – May, 2024

Art Gallery of Ontario – Toronto, Canada

“MHM”* – Making Her Mark”

175 thoughts on “Making Her Mark – Self Portraits IV”

  1. Thank you Resa and Rebecca for another nice post, on this not known to me at least artist, beautiful nude drawing, the painting featuring her is also really nice and pleasant to look at, good company for a first early morning coffee…:)

    1. Thank you Jean Marc!
      I’m really enjoying this series on women artists.
      Prior to going to the show, I had only heard of 3 or 4. xx

  2. Like JMR, I was also reading this with my coffee (second cup). 😉 I did not know of Anne Guéret. It is indeed fortunate for her and her sister that they were adopted by someone with wealth and connections. Thank you for pointing out the sketch of the male nude in the painting. It made me look at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art, where women were not allowed to study live male nudes until Mary Cassatt forced it in the later part of the 19th century. (They could sketch from casts where the male genitalia was covered by a fig leaf.) My dad’s dissertation was on the founding of the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, but I suspect he did not think of women at all.

    1. A most interesting comment Merril, thank you!

      Yes, the adoption was fortunate, for Anne and for all future women in the arts and in a larger context.

      Good for Mary Cassatt, another ground breaker. It was the around the same time in Europe that the art schools opened up to women.

      Very cool about your dad. You know, he wasn’t the only one who didn’t think of women, in that regard.
      Linda Nochlin’s essay “Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists?” (1971) delves into this issue. Did I already rant onto you about this essay?

      Things have changed since 1971, but the past remains the same, thereby making it an interesting read.

      The purpose of “MHM” (50 years later)was to highlight women artists that until recently were not considered great, by the art world writ large.

      I just had to search the most expensive painting. “Mona Lisa” (Leonardo Da Vinci) 870 million.
      I kept going and was at artist 120 something, and still no women’s paintings.
      I gave up and searched women’s paintings.
      Jimson Weed/White Flower No. by Georgia O’Keefe (est. 57 million)

      Anyway, I’m thrilled to have seen “MHM” and am staying immersed, in the women I met through their art via these posts.
      Rebecca has been great in helping my education.

      Okay, hopefully the book you wrote will arrive at my branch this week. We shouldn’t judge by it, but I love the cover!

      1. Yes, misogyny is still alive and well. I hope we will finally get our first female president.

        I hope you enjoy the book once you get it. It’s a flip through sort of book, and some of the info might be out of date now. I had nothing to do with the cover, but I’m glad you like it!

    2. Your father’s dissertation would be a very interesting read, Merril. I tried to find out why Anne and her sister were adopted by someone with wealth and connections, but nothing definitive came up. There are still stories to be found in the folds of history.

      1. So many stories that might or might not be found. Most archives and old libraries have documents, books, and/or artifacts that have been buried or mislabelled. And of course, so many women’s stories, as stories of the lower classes were never documented.

        1. I am truly grateful for the archivists who preserve our stories, Merril! It is regrettable that the stories of women and lower classes were never documented. Sigh….

          1. Archivists and librarians are great.
            They’re documented when they come into contact with the law or institutions. From there, one can sometimes find bits and pieces of their stories. (I went through lots of court records, almshouse dockets, etc. for my dissertation.)

        2. Yes! The lower classes are another marginalized segment of society.
          Rebecca said she’d would collaborate with me on just that.
          There was a small group of lithograph type images that depict the poor…always working.

          It should be quite interesting. One artist is Geertruydt Roghman from the 1600’s.

    3. I am delighted that you enjoyed this post, Dave. The good news is that the awareness of the history of women artists and their contributions to the world of art has been increasing in recent years. Through efforts to highlight their work, exhibitions, publications, and online platforms have shed light on the often overlooked impact of women artists throughout history. This growing recognition is helping to challenge traditional narratives and bring more diversity and inclusivity to the art world. Exciting!!

  4. A truly beautiful and enlightening review of women in art. I am fascinated and encouraged by this young artists creativity and willingness to exhibit her gift of artistic expression without fear. “A powerful reminder to step outside comfort zones and unleash creativity without reservation”. This remarkable statement is so powerful and applies not only to creativity in the arts but to life in general.
    Thank you Resa and Rebecca for gifting us with this wonderful series , a brilliant tribute to women in art and a nudge to support the female artists and their efforts to make their mark in history and the present.
    Hats off to you my dears. Outstanding project and collaboration.
    Sending love to you both.

    1. Thank you dear Holly! (& Thank you for the reblog)

      It is a fab series. I’m so happy to be working on this with Rebecca. She does great research, and is patient with me.

      It’s not a wonder that I love you so much. You always support women and their endeavours. Brilliant, gifted poet you are, you shine light on others.

      Speaking of art, I do believe I finished Bobby last night. I took some pics before sauntering out into the heat todo errands. Not sauntering now.

      Anyway, The pics look good. I’ll look at them all and send it after I answer a few comments.

      NO INTERNET from 8-5 tomorrow. They are expanding the fibres in our area. So, I will send it tonight. Don’t worry if I don’t answer any comments or mails tomorrow!

      xoxoxoxoxo

      1. I really love the concept of introducing these amazing female artist to us. They deserve recognition and you’ve done such a wonderful job with this.
        Keep them coming, love this series and collaboration.
        xoxoxoxo

        1. Yeah, it’s a wonderful experience.
          Seeing that show did something to me.
          Rebecca will be here tomorrow, while my internet is down.

          Anyway, sent you 2 Bobbies. LOVE the song! LOVE, LOVE!
          xoxoxoxo

    2. Holly – many, many thanks for your heartwarming comment. Resa has the most amazing ideas of how to celebrate, honour and remember women artists who have had the courage to challenge the status quo. I am thrilled to be collaborating with Resa!!!

      I agree that we need to recognize that we must “unleash” our creative spirit in whatever form that will take. In so doing we add to the ongoing creativity of the world. Each of us has the power to foster innovation, inspire others, and drive progress. I often wonder whether women artists throughout history were fully aware of the extent of their influence on future generation of artists. Despite facing challenges and discrimination, their contributions have left a lasting impact on the art world, shaping trends, movements, and inspiring future generations of artists. From the pioneering works of Artemisia Gentileschi to the innovative creations of Frida Kahlo, women artists have played a significant role in shaping the art landscape we see today.

      2. Dear Rebecca, I’m afraid these amazing women artists probably never imagined the impact their works would have on the art community.
        Not until the surrealism and symbolism era did artists such as Kayla and Gertrude Abercrombie, did they begin to have a real place among the male artists.
        I am enjoying this series so much, such a fabulous idea and collaboration!

  5. When I think of the “Salon“, my first thought is to an exhibition in 1874 of artists whose works were refused by the Salon, so they had their own show which, in hindsight, became the First Impressionist Exhibition, one of the most important events in art history.

    Anyway, I do really like this artwork. Males, of course, had no problems drawing or painting female nudes, so it is only fitting the reverse should be true. Oh well, society is funny. It is sad that so few of Anne Guéret’s works have survived. I’m glad this one did.

    Thanks for this little art history lesson.

    1. Trent,

      Thank you for reading about this art history.

      Obviously the works at the MHM show had a huge effect me, and now with Rebecca’s help, I’m learning more about what I saw.

      “First Impressionist Exhibition” how fascinating, Trent.

      You know, you’d think the art world would be more open minded, but there’s a lot of snobbery and prejudices, then and now.

      Yes, society is funny… in that odd funny way. I’m glad some of Anne’s work did survive, too.

      You’re back!

      1. Even today society, at least down here in the US, is very strange about how the body is depicted in art and who does the depicting- we have nudes in our collection and nobody bats an eyelash at a female nude, but a male nude is scandalous – so, yes, a lot of snobbery and prejudices, then and now.
        As you discovered in the MHM show, there were some fabulous female artists in the past, but they were a small minority, so even when one of their pieces goes missing it creates a gap in the record most people will never see or know.
        Yes, I am back! I drove on the two Thursdays so was off line for almost exactly a week.

    2. I am delighted that you mentioned the 1874 “impressionist” exhibition, Trent!! It is a fascinating twist to the “Salon.” The “Salon des Refusés”, originating in 1863, was an exhibition where artists whose works were rejected by the official Paris Salon were able to display their art. This event provided a platform for artists like Édouard Manet, Camille Pissarro, and Paul Cézanne to showcase their innovative and unconventional artworks that challenged the traditional artistic norms of the time. Art cannot be denied or rejected. And that gives me great comfort.

      https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salon_des_Refus%C3%A9s

      1. It is amazing the who’s-who of what later became Impressionism was there for that. For some reason, when Resa asked about the Salon, that sprung to mind immediately. The idea was in the air (no pun intended to the “en plein air” artists that may have been represented) and there was no official body that would stop it or hold it back…
        Anyway, thanks for the informative post about Anne Guéret 🙂

          1. It’s just what it sounds like – painting on location “in plain air”. Monet, etc. did it a lot, trying to capture that exact light…

  6. Then and now Paris is the home of art. ‘Tis why I love the place. Once more another wonderful blog, Rebecca and Resa. Greetings to the pair of you, the ancient yet hopeful, esteem TOF!

  7. Timothy Price's avatar Timothy Price

    Another wonderful post. Women artists painting and sketching nude men in the 18th century is not something I had thought about. But it would be significant.

    1. Thank you, Tim!

      I hadn’t thought of that either, until I saw the MHM show. There was a tiny section with nudes, one by Artemisia Gentileschi from 1612.

      I will get around to posting those one day! xx

      1. Timothy Price's avatar Timothy Price

        A long, long time ago
        I can’t say that I remember, but a woman painted a naked man
        She knew if she had the chance, she could do it at a glance
        And they’d both be happy all the while
        But February made him shiver
        Without his arrow in a quiver

        She got logs from the doorstep
        And continued painting Mr. Dep
        She didn’t realize what would be won
        When she painted the tinker’s son
        Back on the day in 1612
        The day the painting was done…

    2. You are right, Tim. In the 18th century, it was scandalous for women artists to paint nude males due to societal norms and expectations that dictated women’s roles and behaviors. I cannot imagine the suffocating feeling of having to adhere to strict moral codes and modesty. Of course, the art world was predominantly male-dominated, and women artists challenging traditional gender roles by depicting nude males was considered subversive and controversial. This defiance of societal conventions led to backlash and criticism against women artists who dared to portray nudity in their work, further reinforcing the taboo surrounding such subject matter. I believe that even now, we deal with taboos that will require time to unravel.

      1. Timothy Price's avatar Timothy Price

        There are a lot of multiple standards in the moral fabric of our modern age. Actions that are considered to be scandalous by some political factions are considered essential credentials for other political factions.

  8. Another fabulous introduction, you two! I was 0 for 4 in knowing who these painters/artists are. Thanks to you, I am now 4 for 4!

    Trailblazers are what they are, that is for sure. Especially Mlle Anne Guéret – choosing to paint an artist drawing a nude was a perfect way of getting away with it, so to speak.

    Merci mesdames!

    1. I was 0 for 4 too. As a matter of fact I knew almost none of the names in the MHM exhibit, which is precisely why there was an exhibit.

      I wish it would have travelled to more cities. It seems a shame that it was shown only in Toronto and Baltimore.

      Yes… getting away wth it… what else can we do?

      Bienvenue ma tonnerre!

      (omg… N. found 14 horn worms yesterday and today!)

      1. There ya go. We’re all smarter now!.

        Yeah, I wish it came to Montreal.

        You’re right.

        Ma Sorcière Bien-Aimée.

        Ugh. No!!! Bastids.

    2. I am with you, Dale!! Now I am 4 for 4, too. I am delighted that Resa invited me to explore these amazing women artists. It has been a profound journey of discovery for me. Many thanks for adding to this celebration of women artists!!

    1. You are welcome, Michael!

      There are a lot women artists from 1600 – 1800 that many know naught about. I’m having a great time exposing some of them here.

      Thank you so much for reading!

    1. Thank you Liz!

      Yes, the time has come, and Rebecca and I are doing out best to make sure it stays!

      There will be MHM posts every so often. I put a banner at the top of my side bar, which links to all of the posts in this series.

    2. I share your excitement, Liz!! I feel that there is a resurgence of interest in women artists of the past due to a growing recognition of their historical contributions that have been overlooked. This renewed focus sheds light on their unique perspectives and challenges, inspiring contemporary artists to explore new narratives and push boundaries in their work today. Resa’s “Making her Mark” series acknowledges and celebrates the achievements of women artists from the past. Wonderful to be a part of this journey.

    1. I agree!

      She may have done more, but we’ll never know. It is possible most of her art was destroyed in the French Revolution. xxxxx

        1. Oh Shey- you always know how to articulate my thoughts on the past beautifully !! I agree wholeheartedly – these women are never gone when they exist.

          1. Rebecca, I prob said it badly to start with. I just thought the pic which I had never seen was so far before its time and not just in being daring- a woman drawing a nude man. It was the simplicity, the lines, lack of color ..obvi..but then again, it is nicer and more modern without. And then I thought re you and Resa and this series of posts. And how damned hard it was for women in the past to be thought of or recognised at all and yet there they were shining their light ..as always…. no matter how obscure. So thank you both for lifting that candle because so long as we do, these womean will be there.

            2. So very well said, Shey. The question that has always been in the back of my mind was, how can we honour those women outliers who challenged the status quo. Resa’s idea for “Making Her Mark” is an answer to this question. We celebrate the women in the past who have been outliers by researching and sharing their stories to bring attention to their achievements and contributions. By acknowledging and celebrating these women artists, their legacy lives on and their impact is never forgotten.

    2. Many thanks John for your heartwarming comment. So very much appreciated. I agree wholeheartedly- expanding learning is indeed a valuable gift that can lead to personal growth, new opportunities, and a deeper understanding of the world around us. Resa’s “Making Her Mark” is a wonderful example of embracing new knowledge for me.

    2. I agree, Frank!!! It is sad that female artists faced numerous obstacles in the past, including limited access to education and training, societal expectations that prioritized domestic roles over artistic pursuits, lack of recognition and support from art institutions, and discrimination based on gender. These barriers hindered their ability to fully develop their talents, showcase their work, and achieve recognition and success in the art world. We have lost a great deal because of these obstacles!!!

  14. I love that drawing. It’s gorgeous. What a wonderful artist. Being a woman, she has been hidden from the world. Thank you for bringing her to light. Wonderful post. ❤️

    1. Many women artists were hidden away in the 1400 – 1800 eras.

      I took a lot of pics at MHM and plan to highlight as many as possible!

      Thank you, Gi! xoxox

    2. I am so pleased that you joined Resa and me on this exploration of amazing women artists, Gi! I have learned a great deal from collaborating with Resa!

            1. I do every day! Each day has a creative want attached to it. Tonight it’s a mundane one, sewing by hand. However, it will end up being an Art Gown in about 6 – weeks. 🤗

              1. Woooo Hooo! You are amazing and all of your friends are amazing. I am so glad you let me wander around and enjoy your vast collection of creations.

  16. Dear Resa and Rebecca, thank you for this beautiful and educational post. My knowledge has been expanded, and I appreciate your wonderful interview, research, and photography shared in a lovely way. Hugs to you both! xo

    1. Thank you dear Lauren!

      Sharing about our artist sisters from 1400- 1800 will be ongoing- off and on- in the coming months. There are so many accomplished women we don’t know about.

      Hugs and love back to you! xoxox

    2. What fun this has been for me, Lauren. Resa’s idea of “Making her Mark” is a fabulous way to celebrate and honour women artists. I understand that Resa has many more photos to share in the coming weeks!!

  18. Another wonderful collaboration on women in history, you two! It’s sad that more of Anne’s works aren’t available. I love that you pointed out her influence on the art world. Well done on the collab!

    2. I am so pleased that you joined Resa and me on this profound journey to the past, Christy. It is wonderful to share knowledge and experience. Many thanks for your comments!

  19. Fascinating post Resa and Rebecca. Some great research! I’d never heard of Anne Guéret. Thanks for sharing a bit of her with us Rebecca. Empowering women often hid in the shadows with their talents back in ‘the day’. Hugs ❤ xox

  20. Fascinating. I’d never heard of Anne Guéret, and I know a bit about artists of that period. Which shows the glass ceiling in action.

    Thank you both for sharing.

    1. Thank you, Brian!
      Yes, the glass ceiling was a floor back then. (If that makes any sense?) It still is in many places in. the world.
      You are welcome, and thanks for popping by!

    1. Yay!
      That was the purpose of the “Making Her Mark” exhibition.
      I was enthralled and deeply moved. I intend to share as much of the show as possible. Not all the pics I took are worthy, but many are.
      Hugs!

  22. I LOVE this MHM series, thank you Resa and Rebecca for highlighting so many under-appreciated female artists!

    I’ve never never even heard of Anne Guéret, wow drawing nude figures must’ve been quite scandalous for that era, truly remarkable that she dared to do that. Even more amazing that it was documented in her painting, too!

    I try to highlight as many movies by female directors as I could on my blog, I think we women always have to support fellow women in the arts. So thank you for always doing so, bravo!!

    1. You are welcome, Ruth!
      It’s a joy to shine a light on sisters from. the past, which was the main point of MHM.
      I know you feature many female directors on your blog. There is still a need today for women to support women, in all creative areas and in all walks of life.
      I am thrilled you are enjoying this series.

  23. I have a few quotes to share of Women in art and the power of vision, revolution, and empowerment.

    “I love creation more than life, and I must express myself before disappearing.”
    ~Sonia Delaunay, multi-disciplinary abstract artist

    “The only thing I have learned is to find strength in yourself. No one can help you, no one can do anything for you, you have to do the work yourself.”
    ~Marina Abramovic, performance artist

    “A woman is the full circle. Within her is the power to create, nurture, and transform.”
    ~Diane Mariechild, author

    “That’s what I’m interested in: the space in between, the moment of imagining what is possible and yet not knowing what that is.”
    ~Julie Mehretu, contemporary visual artist

    “Inhale possibility, exhale creativity.”
    ~Laura Jaworski, author and artist

    “I am an artist, and I have the right to be reckless with my work.”
    ~Patti Smith, singer, songwriter, poet, painter, and author

    This blog is powerful, and the illustration is beautiful.

  24. HI Resa, Hi Rebecca, I’ve not heard of this female artist before so I’m delighted to be introduced to her. An interesting idea to paint a woman painting a nude. It sort of mutes the message a bit, doesn’t it? How times have changed. I paint naked animals all the time and no-one minds at all (grin!)

  26. One must take a deep breath, for at least a few men had open hearts and minds to help such brilliant artists. Thank you, ladies, Resa and Rebecca, for another fascinating introduction to those excellent women’s arts. And I apologise for my belated comment; I was on vacation with an inferior connection to the word-web!🙄🤗🙏💖

    1. Thank you, Aladin!
      I was wondering why I wasn’t getting notifications on your blog posts.
      Now I know.
      Welcome back! 👍🥰xoxo

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