The Violin of Ingres

The Violin of Ingres by Man Ray, 1924

This photograph taken by Man Ray in 1924, transformed the female body into a musical instrument by having sound-holes painted on her back. This photograph is used to display the idea of objectification of a female body. However, this picture also creates a tension between objectification and appreciation of the female body. Man Ray's intentions are not completely clear in the photograph and it is so interesting how it operates on so many levels. It’s still confusing as to why he doesn't show the woman's arms, and it makes it harder to contemplate. He points out the irony of the shape of the women's body in comparison to a violin. He depicts this portrait of the woman with such delicate care given to her back and profile. The colors of this photograph seem so smooth and light, and create a sense of delicacy. The light grey and whites of the picture creates a warm touch to her body and the photograph. 

As he represents the woman as an instrument, it seems as though he is trying to assert things about women. I believe that he created this photograph to show that women are predictable and can be manipulated just like a violin. Man Ray models this women with the care like one would use upon an instrument of high craft. Her head and back make up the frame, modeled in precision like a violin. I love how he can use her body to make it look more than just a body, but something more interesting. Also what makes this photograph so interesting is that her head is wrapped, so that her hair doesn't fall down her back, which makes the subject slightly more ambiguous. This photograph depicts a time past, however, it’s meaning and representation is still true and relevant today.