Bernard Teyssèdre's Updated 'Le Roman de l'Origine' Explores Courbet's Masterpiece
Bernard Teyssèdre has released a revised and expanded edition of his 1996 book 'Le Roman de l'Origine,' published by Éditions Gallimard-l'Infini. The work investigates Gustave Courbet's iconic painting 'L'Origine du monde' (1866), a realist depiction of a woman's genitals that remains controversial and enigmatic. Teyssèdre's hybrid essay-novel combines documented history with speculative hypotheses about gaps in the painting's provenance. The new edition includes fresh analyses linking Courbet's work to erotic drawings by Auguste Rodin, Pablo Picasso's 'La Grande Pisseuse,' and Marcel Duchamp's 'Étant donnés.' It also examines a suspected forgery of 'L'Origine du monde' attributed to René Magritte, which was featured on the cover of art press in May 1982. Thierry Savatier's earlier comprehensive study of the painting's tumultuous journey, reviewed in art press, is referenced. Teyssèdre promises further surprising developments, driven by his relentless curiosity and vast knowledge. The book underscores the enduring mystery of masterpieces despite extensive critical commentary.
Key facts
- Bernard Teyssèdre published a revised and expanded edition of 'Le Roman de l'Origine' in 2007.
- The book is published by Éditions Gallimard-l'Infini.
- It focuses on Gustave Courbet's painting 'L'Origine du monde' (1866).
- The original edition was released in 1996.
- The new edition explores links to Rodin, Picasso, Duchamp, and Magritte.
- A suspected Magritte forgery of the painting was on the cover of art press in May 1982.
- Thierry Savatier's earlier essay on the painting is mentioned.
- The painting is housed at the Musée d'Orsay.
Entities
Artists
- Bernard Teyssèdre
- Gustave Courbet
- Auguste Rodin
- Pablo Picasso
- Marcel Duchamp
- René Magritte
- Thierry Savatier
- Jacques Henric
Institutions
- Éditions Gallimard-l'Infini
- Musée d'Orsay
- art press
Locations
- Paris
- France
Sources
- artpress —