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Tuesday 28 August 2012

Spanish magazine puts Michelle Obama's head on a portrait of topless slave




A Spanish magazine landed themselves in the middle of a racial controversy over a Photoshopped picture of First Lady Michelle Obama on the cover of their latest issue.

The picture has places Mrs Obama's face in a 1800 portrait of a slave with an exposed breast.

The editors may have had a different message in mind given the historical context of the particular painting, but that sentiment was overlooked by online viewers who found the composite offensive and racist.

The portrait in question was initially released 1800, when French artist Marie-Guillemine Benoist exhibited the painting, titled Portrait D'Une NĂ©gresse, at the Louvre's annual salon.

It was viewed as a inspiring image because the country had abolished slavery six years prior, and the portrait was thought of as an inspiring symbol of both women's and black people's rights.

In keeping with the true meaning, the accompanying article translates to 'Michelle Granddaughter of a Slave, Lady of America'. Both Mrs Obama's great-great grandfather and great-great-great grandmother were slaves.

Not sure the first lady will be pleased!


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