r/classicalArt

I had always figured that this painting was inspired by Emile Zola’s book Nana, given that they both depict a courtesan and the physical description of the woman matches very well. the gentleman on the couch makes a convincing Count Muffat. but I’ve just looked up this painting for fun and realized it was produced 3 years before the book!

Nana was apparently a common name chosen by late 19th century French sex workers. so, I was wrong and learned something just a little bit more interesting. I’ve always loved this painting!