Jean-Leon Gerome, A Roman Slave Market ,1884

 Jean-Léon Gérôme painting of The Roman Slave Market dates back to 1884. The painting at first seems more towards the sensual side, but it truly is just a demeaning act by perverted men. The gentlemen are technically purchasing a slave, but as seen from the facial features they are enjoying themselves more than usual. The gaze of males focuses on the woman from either side, making the event a cruel spectacle for the slave herself.

Roman law regarded slaves as mere property. An item to be sold like any other product. Roman Slaves were subject to the will of their masters, against whom they had no protection or rights. The sellers would emphasize the features and benefits and any unique selling points. Slaves for sale would sometimes be made to standnaked on revolving stands so the buyers could see exactly what they were purchasing. If the slave was not nude, potential buyers could demand that they were stripped in order that a closer inspection might be made.

The painting is a powerful icon for women, especially today. It is proof that they have overcome the law of man and pushed through the limitations that have been put upon them since the beginning of civilization. The shadows in the background of the painting add a heavy weight to the crowd and make the viewers vision center on the woman and her white, reflective skin. The woman’s nudity and covering of her eyes adds to the innocence and allows her to be separate from of society. The painting balances out nicely its composition and lighting, and is cut with equal parts beauty and disgust.