Morgan Remaking Madea

EVELYN PICKERING DE MORGAN'S MADEA (1857)

Highlights Madea with subtle sexuality and a hint of an ankle, showing sandals and jewels in her hair. This is a very unique representation of Madea, as we usually see Madea as evil and snaky. Her sexuality peers through her darkness while Madea's femininity and sexuality feel light and soft. We see her wearing purple and cream gowns -- purple represents royalty and importance -- with fair skin, red hair, golden eyes and stained lips, pleasant posture and an indifferent expression within her beautiful face. The Victorian Era brought many changes for the female gender including a change of representations. Chadwick's book highlights that Evelyn was providing an image of Madea that was lighter and more beautifully powerful than the usual more harsh representations of Madea as evil (pg. 204 ch. 6). To further the positive outlook on Madea there is a sliver of the moon in the sky behind her, rather than a full moon bearing wickedness. She is surrounded by white doves all in a hall of marble and granite, highlighting purity in light engulfed in a strong foundation. There are roses on the ground to her right, a glass of red wine in her left hand and arched, detailed ceilings above her. All of this is an attempt to highlight Madea, not only in a different light, but also as a symbol of something completely different. The marveled patterned floors are shiny and highlight the artist's talent as they reflect the room and share dimension with the audience. The hall she is walking in is grand and detailed as well, with female cherubs at the top and noble lions at the base of the banisters on the stairs. Evelyn rendition of Madea may have also been trying to represent women as strong, noble and worthy through this aspect. Prior to this era, and still at this time, women were usually seen as seductresses and symbols of sexuality. This piece seems to put a women's best foot forward as it highlights the pure and strong side of a women, allowing Madea and by correlation, all women, to be seen as powerful and beautiful without objectifying women. There are so many aspects of this piece that highlight Evelyn's talent and also exemplify Evelyn's clever representation. This is a beautiful piece overall and an important message.