The 'Grand Masters'

Female artists may have to struggle to flourish as professionals because of assumptions made in deference to the ‘Grand Masters’, the legendary painters and sculptors of centuries ago. Associated conventions dictated that since only men could be talented enough to produce the finest art, lady artists might be tolerated but consistent or serious effort could be scorned and satirised without further justification.

Anne Seymour Damer was a British sculptor, from the mid-eighteenth century, who voiced objections to the absurdity of women artists being denied access to nude models. The cartoon shown here was published in 1789 and mocked her artwork to compromise her reputation.

Apparently the main suggestion was being made that such artists were corrupting younger women and guilty of inappropriate behaviour. Damer was an ideal target for such ridicule that was, presumably, generated not only criticism of her private life but subsequent negative publicity for her work. She lived separately from her husband when he had left her and later he committed suicide.