This portrait of Virginie Amelie Avegno Gautreau was done by John Singer Sargent early in his career. It is his most infamous work. It represents a scandal that nearly ended his career and did force him to flee Paris for London and to spend time traveling the world.

This portrait is dramatic with a mysterious title and pose. It was provocative and unconventional in the late 19^th century. This American born socialite appears within the contrast of her pale skin and the beautiful folds of a black dress against a brown background and accent table. It is lovely in realism and in Sargent’s talent for painting fabric, and both the Paris critics and public hated it! They were aghast that a married woman had been painted in this way. It was named scandalous and immoral – a lewd and tacky painting – and the subject was branded an adulteress.

Sargent’s career did survive this painting. He went on to give us many treasured masterworks including portraits. This part of his personal history seems to present us with questions that have also survived. Long ago and now critics steeped in the status quo seem to snarl with bared teeth against the march of new societal perspectives, even in art. Was it fear that caused their rancor about Madame X? Where was their faith in cutting edge creativity? Were time worn themes of nationalism and misogyny also in play?  Where are any of our current criticisms rooted? Can you imagine what social media could have done to escalate the Madame X outrage?  

And another timeless question, how do we find peace in a world of harsh judgement and rabid negativity? It might be in the mere seconds of our daily decisions when we remember we are people of the way of God called to share respect, appreciation, and kindness.

On this day 139 years later, may we be grateful to John Singer Sargent and Amelie. May we think of them as we strive to embrace new visions and refrain from criticism in God’s world of growth and change. Amen.

In gratitude, faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church