New Book Argues Maria Martins Inspired Duchamp's 'Étant donnés'
Francis M. Naumann's upcoming book, "Impossible," claims that Maria Martins significantly influenced Marcel Duchamp's "Étant donnés." The two artists first crossed paths in 1943 at the Valentine Gallery in New York City. Named after Martins's 1946 sculpture "The Impossible, III," the book posits that she was central to Duchamp's emotional world for eight years. Notable works of Martins, such as "Huitième voile" (1948) and "Je crus avoir longuement rêvé que j'étais libre" (1945), are referenced as key sources of inspiration. However, critics argue that Naumann's portrayal of Martins is overly simplistic, depicting her as a "femme fatale."
Key facts
- Francis M. Naumann's book 'Impossible' (2026) argues Maria Martins inspired Duchamp's 'Étant donnés'.
- Martins and Duchamp met in New York City in 1943 at Valentine Gallery.
- The book is named after Martins's 1946 bronze sculpture 'The Impossible, III'.
- Naumann claims Martins was the center of Duchamp's emotional life for eight years.
- Duchamp's 'Étant donnés' (1946–66) features a nude figure based on Martins.
- Martins's works 'Huitième voile' (1948) and 'Je crus avoir longuement rêvé que j'étais libre' (1945) are cited as influences.
- The book has been criticized for its one-dimensional portrayal of Martins as a 'femme fatale'.
- Naumann uses first name for Martins and last name for Duchamp, reflecting unequal treatment.
- Martins was married to the Brazilian ambassador to the United States.
- The affair lasted roughly eight years, ending when Martins moved to Paris and later São Paulo.
Entities
Artists
- Maria Martins
- Marcel Duchamp
- Francis M. Naumann
Institutions
- Abbeville Press
- Valentine Gallery
- Philadelphia Museum of Art
- Museum of Modern Art
Locations
- New York City
- Washington, DC
- Paris
- São Paulo
- United States
- Brazil