The painting was first exhibited at the Salon des Refuses (Salon of the Refused) in 1863. Manet’s work created an uproar because the primary aspect that caused a stir was the subject matter. During those times art that contained a nude woman in a classical setting was considered a goddess, models, or mythical. Normally a nude model in a painting would not be facing the viewer’s way as well. Manet’s Luncheon on the Grass was not accepted because the nude female was in a contemporary setting. They had considered her to be a prostitute. During those times prostitution in Paris was rampant. Many thought he was referencing the scene of the Bois de Boulogne, a large Parisian park. For them it was one thing to know about what was going on back then
